Set in the heart of Qatar’s modern cultural hub, the Lusail International Film Festival (LIFF) is a global celebration of cinema, creativity, and cultural exchange. The festival brings together filmmakers, artists, and industry leaders from around the world to showcase groundbreaking films, foster dialogue, and explore diverse storytelling traditions.

Hosted annually in Lusail City an icon of innovation and architectural excellence. LIFF features an inspiring lineup of international and regional premieres, masterclasses, industry panels, and red-carpet events. The festival highlights voices from the Arab world while embracing global cinema that challenges, inspires, and entertains.

An engaging festival featuring curated screenings, filmmaker Q&As, networking opportunities, and awards. Selected filmmakers will connect with audiences, gain exposure, and celebrate their work in a vibrant, supportive environment. A two-day event featuring scheduled film blocks by category, morning and afternoon panels, evening Q&A sessions, and a closing night awards presentation.

LIFF is more than just a film festival it is a platform for emerging talent, a meeting point for visionaries, and a cultural bridge connecting Qatar to the world.

Awards & Prizes

🏆 LIFF 2026 – Official Awards List

🥇​ MADE IN QATAR AWARDS
Best Qatari Film

Best Qatari Director

Best Qatari Screenplay

Best Qatari Producer

Best Student Film – Qatar

Emerging Qatari Talent Award

Best Cinematography in a Qatari Film

Qatar Cultural Identity Award

🎬 MAIN COMPETITION
Best Narrative Film

Best Director

Best Actor

Best Supporting Actor

Best Supporting Actress

Best Screenplay

Best Short Script

Best Editing

Best Sound Designing

Best Documentary

Best Student Film

Best Experimental Film

Best Educational Film

Best Feature Script

Best Trailer / Teaser

🧠 SPECIAL AWARDS
Audience Choice Award (online voting)

Jury Special Mention

LIFF Rising Star Award

Cultural Impact Award

Rules & Terms

Rules & Terms – Lusail International Film Festival (LIFF)

Eligibility:
Submissions are open to filmmakers of all nationalities. All films are accepted as long as they belong to one of our official main categories

Categories:
Films may be submitted to one or more of the following categories: Narrative, Documentary, Student Film, Experimental, Educational, Feature Script, Short Script, Trailer/Teaser, and Qatari Film.

Made in Qatar – Eligibility Requirement:
To qualify for the Made in Qatar category, the film must either be shot in the State of Qatar or involve at least one key Qatari crew member (such as director, writer, producer, or cinematographer).

Language:
Films not in English or Arabic must include English subtitles.

Premiere Status:
Premiere status is not required, but priority may be given to films that have not been widely released online.

Duration:
Short films must not exceed 30 minutes. Feature-length scripts must be over 60 pages.

Rights & Permissions:
By submitting, the filmmaker confirms they have full rights to the material and grant the festival permission to exhibit the film.

Selection Process:
All submissions will be reviewed by an official jury. Selections are final and will be announced via email and social media.

Awards:
Winners will be announced at the closing of the festival and will receive official digital certificates and recognition across our platforms.