Doha:The Doha Film Institute (DFI) has announced that the Doha Film Festival (DFF) 2026 will open with the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) premiere of "The Station" (Al Mahattah), an acclaimed debut feature by Yemeni-Scottish filmmaker Sara Ishaq. The festival is scheduled to take place in Doha from November 19-27, 2026.
According to Qatar News Agency, "The Station" tells a compelling story of resilience, sisterhood, and solidarity, set in a women-only petrol station in war-torn Yemen. This location serves as a sanctuary where women gather for fuel, conversation, and brief escapes from their challenging realities. The narrative follows Layal, who must reconnect with her estranged sister to save her younger brother from enlistment.
The film, supported by DFI's grants program, previously won five awards at the Final Cut in Venice 2025, including the prestigious La Biennale di Venezia Award for Best Film in Post-Production. It made its world premiere at the Cannes Critics' Week in May 2026. Its selection as the opening film for DFF underscores DFI's dedication to fostering regional talent and sharing their stories globally.
Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, CEO of Doha Film Institute and Director of Doha Film Festival, highlighted the film's alignment with the institute's vision of promoting unique narratives that transcend borders and emphasize shared humanity. Alremaihi stated that Sara Ishaq has crafted a film of remarkable bravery and tenderness that resonates universally.
Directed by Sara Ishaq and co-written with Nadia Eliewat, the film features performances by Manal Al-Mulaiki, Abeer Mohammed, Rashad Khaled, and others. Ishaq expressed that "The Station" is a tribute to Yemen's enduring spirit amid ongoing conflict, portraying complex and humane characters.
The DFF continues to serve as a hub for diverse voices from Qatar, the Arab region, and beyond. Through its continuous support for filmmakers, the DFI fosters cultural connections and offers audiences new perspectives that are both challenging and inspiring.