Doha Film Institute (DFI), an independent cultural organisation that brings Qatar’s film initiatives under one banner, has appointed Abdulaziz Al-Khater as its chief executive officer.

Sheikha Al Mayassa Bint Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, founder and chair of DFI, said: “Doha Film Institute has established its credentials as one of the most promising film education establishments in the region, bringing fresh perspectives and opportunities for our talented creative community.”

“The all-encompassing approach of DFI to promote a robust film industry in Qatar has helped us to create a distinct identity not only in the region but also globally. The appointment of Al-Khater, who has a wealth of management expertise, will be strong value addition in driving the future growth of the institute.”

Acting CEO and DFI board member, Mansour Ibrahim Al-Mahmoud, said: “Al-Khater brings with him extensive experience in leadership and business management, with a strong local and regional focus. His in-depth business acumen combined with international insights will help further support DFI’s overall business objectives and company mandate.”

With over 14 years of leadership experience, Al-Khater has extensive regional and international expertise in management, banking, information technology, operations, finance, and logistics, a statement from DFI said. He joins the intitute from Al Khalij Commercial Bank, having established it as one of the key financial institutions in the region. He has also held senior positions with International Bank of Qatar and HSBC.

“I am looking forward to being part of a growing cultural organisation that has established itself both within the region and internationally as an Institute dedicated to developing Arab talent and creativity,” Al-Khater said. “DFI is poised for an exciting era of growth as it continues to evolve and foster the development of local and regional film industries.”

To further build on its focus of promoting Qatari culture and heritage and to strengthen local community engagement through the annual Doha Tribeca Film Festival (DTFF), DFI has added Souq Waqif, the city’s favourite cultural attraction, which will now serve as a festival hub for DTFF to be held from November 17 to 24.

Featuring boutique hotels set in an inimitable environment that highlights the richness of Arabian architecture, Souq Waqif will host the opening and closing ceremonies of the festival, and an array of industry and hospitality events.

The other festival venue, Katara, will continue to serve as the screening hub of the festival and the heart of family days. DTFF screenings will also be held at the Museum of Islamic Art auditorium.

Issa Bin Mohammed Al-Mohannadi, DTFF vice chair, said: “Souq Waqif, one of Qatar’s most popular tourist destinations, is a strong testament to Doha’s thriving culture and arts landscape and a perfect choice as one of the festival hubs.”

“With Souq Waqif, Katara and the Museum of Islamic Art serving as the festival and screening venues, we are offering visitors a powerful showcase of Qatari culture, bringing them closer to the heart of our nation’s proud heritage. DTFF has always focused on bonding with the local community, and Souq Waqif and Katara will be central to community engagement by hosting family and industry events that promote intercultural dialogue.”

Souq Waqif features five contemporary hotels including Arumaila Hotel, Al Jasra, Al Mirqab, Al Najada and Musheireb. The boutique properties are designed to provide guests with a strong understanding of Qatari culture – from traditions to architecture – as seen from the winding ‘sikkas,’ in addition to an array of local art galleries.

The fourth edition of the festival will open with Mira Nair’s critically-acclaimed The Reluctant Fundamentalist, in addition to showcasing an internationally diverse programme of over 50 films in distinct themed segments.

Public participation will be central with the festival hosting an array of large community events, including family day, as well as panel discussions, networking events and educational filmmaking programmes including Doha Talks and Doha Projects. – TradeArabia News Service