An archive of all the stories, memories, and experiences we’ve shared (🔗📷).

Last Edit: October 13, 2025

The Delegation of the European Union to the State of Qatar, in collaboration with Katara Cultural Village and the Embassies of EU Member States, is pleased to announce the upcoming poetry exhibition titled “Verses Across Borders: EU Poetry Exhibition”, to be held from 22 October to 4 November 2025 at Al-Ibda’a Courtyard, Katara. The exhibition will officially open with a special ceremony on 22 October. This initiative is a remarkable cultural project that highlights the power of poetry to bridge cultures, ignite dialogue, and honor universal themes such as love, identity, resilience, and shared humanity. The exhibition will feature poems from across the European Union, presented in both their original languages and Arabic or English translations, creating a rich tapestry of literary expression. Poems from Bulgaria, Germany, Finland, Poland, Malta, Czechia, France, Romania, Belgium, and Italy will be displayed artistically at Al-Ibda’a Courtyard, Katara, and visitors will enjoy a multi-sensory experience through visually designed displays, with creative direction and production support provided by Katara. H.E. Dr. Cristian Tudor, Ambassador of the European Union to the State of Qatar, commented: “Poetry speaks to the soul in ways few other art forms can. This exhibition is a tribute to the poetic voices that shape our cultures and connect us beyond borders. We are honoured to partner with Katara and our EU Member States to bring this celebration of words to the heart of Doha.” H.E Prof. Dr. Khaled bin Ibrahim Al-Sulaiti, General Manager of the Cultural Village Foundation - Katara, stated: “Katara is proud to host Verses Across Borders, a project that aligns with our mission to promote cultural dialogue and artistic collaboration. Poetry has always played a central role in Arab and European traditions, and this exhibition offers a unique opportunity to witness how these worlds resonate with one another, and updates will be shared via the official social media platforms of the EU Delegation and Katara” The exhibition will be open to the public. Further details on the program and participating poets will be shared in due course. Stay tuned via the EU Delegation and Katara’s official social media platforms for updates.

Last Edit: October 13, 2025

As part of the exciting build-up to the EU Youth Short Film Festival 2025, taking place on 24–25 November 2025, the Delegation of the European Union to the State of Qatar is proud to present thought-provoking masterclasses led by internationally acclaimed filmmakers from JaJa Film Productions. Under the theme “Films That Move You – The Art of Creating Stories with Impact”, the masterclasses will explore how cinema can spark empathy, drive awareness, and inspire social change, with a particular focus on inclusive storytelling and the empowerment of women in filmmaking. Topics will span the entire filmmaking journey, from creative development to case studies that have made a global impact. The sessions will be delivered by Jamillah van der Hulst and Conrad Alleblas, co-founders of JaJa Film Productions, a Netherlands-based company known for creating films with powerful social messages. “It’s a real pleasure to connect with the youth of Qatar and share our experiences in building films that can truly make a difference,” said Jamillah van der Hulst, Founder and Director-Producer at JaJa Film Productions and masterclass speaker. “We hope to inspire young creatives to tell stories that matter and tell them well.” The masterclasses will take place on 24 November at Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar and on 25 November at Northwestern University in Qatar. Both institutions are key academic partners in the film festival. “The collaboration with Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar and Northwestern University in Qatar reflects our strong belief in the power of education and creative exchange,” said H.E. Dr. Cristian Tudor, Ambassador of the European Union to the State of Qatar. “Through these partnerships, we are connecting students with European expertise, enriching the dialogue between cultures, and investing in the next generation of storytellers.” Beyond the academic halls, the festival culminates in two evenings of public film screenings on 24 and 25 November at Doha Sands Beach, featuring a curated selection of short films from across the European Union and Qatar. This year marks a new and exciting collaboration with Al Mana Film Studios, Qatar’s first independent cinema studio, which is contributing to the festival by supporting emerging Qatari talent and helping shape the local film segment of the programme. “We are proud to be part of this inspiring initiative that supports emerging talent and celebrates cultural dialogue through film,” said AbdulRahman Al Mana, Chief Executive Officer of Al Mana Film Studios. “It’s an honour to contribute to a platform that bridges our stories with the world.” The EU Youth Short Film Festival invites the public to attend two evenings of creative celebration and cinematic storytelling. Register now through the website: eufilmfestival.qa, to attend the film screenings and explore stories that move, challenge, and connect us all.

Last Edit: September 1, 2025

Call for Submissions Now Open for Qatari Youth Filmmakers The EU Youth Short Film Festival is back for its highly anticipated second edition, taking place on 24–25 November 2025 at the vibrant Doha Sands Beach. This year’s festival promises another unforgettable celebration of creativity, cultural storytelling, and youth voices from Qatar and the European Union. With a special thematic spotlight on “Women in Focus: Empowerment Through Storytelling” on the second day, the festival will continue to explore bold ideas and human stories through the lens of young filmmakers. The Delegation of the European Union to the State of Qatar invites Qatari filmmakers under the age of 35 to submit their short films for consideration. As part of the festival, a panel of international and local experts will award prizes in two categories: Best Picture and Best Screenplay. Last year’s Best Picture award went to Olayan by Qatari filmmaker Khalifa Al Marri, a touching story of a young Bedouin boy and his camel. The Best Screenplay award went to It’s Nice in Here by Dutch filmmaker Robert-Jonathan Koeyers. Two Qatari films, Through Her Eyes by Lolwa Al Jassim and A Simple Cut by Maha Al Jufairi, received Honourable Mentions for their powerful storytelling and social themes. This year’s winners will be celebrated during an award ceremony on the closing night of the festival. Film Submission Guidelines:

• Open to Qatari nationals or residents under 35 years of age
• Films must be 20 minutes or less
• Must include English subtitles if not in English
• All genres welcome: fiction, documentary, animation, experimental
• Films must be submitted by email to: ghada.kofa@eeas.europa.eu
• Deadline for submissions: 15 September 2025

More exciting programming will be announced soon, including opportunities for youth engagement and expert-led masterclasses. For updates, follow @EUinQatar on social media or visit https://eufilmfestival.qa/ Join us as we celebrate the next generation of storytellers, one frame at a time.

Last Edit: May 21, 2025

The Delegation of the European Union to the State of Qatar hosted a diplomatic reception on Wednesday, 7 May, at W Doha to mark Europe Day 2025, commemorating the anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, which laid the foundation for the European Union.   The event gathered members of the diplomatic corps and representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including the presence of H.E. Minister of Transport, Sheikh Muhammad bin Abdulla Al Thani, along with key partners from the government of the State of Qatar. The celebration highlighted the values the European Union stands for, peace, partnership, and unity in diversity, while reinforcing the strength of EU-Qatar relations.   H.E. Dr. Cristian Tudor, Ambassador of the European Union to the State of Qatar, stated: “Europe Day is more than a celebration of history; it is a living reminder of our shared commitment to dialogue, peace, and cooperation. As the world becomes more fragmented, the European Union remains a reliable and principled partner, investing in long-term solutions with our friends across the globe, including here in Qatar. Europe Day 2025 also reflects the EU’s continued engagement in addressing global challenges, especially in a volatile environment as the one we are currently navigating, including on peace building, regional stability, economic resilience and of course climate change. This year, we are working on the tangible outcomes of the deliverables agreed during the first EU-GCC Summit, in October 2024, in Brussels under the Qatari chairmanship of the Gulf Cooperation Council”.

Last Edit: April 18, 2025

The European Union Delegation to the State of Qatar recently concluded the second edition of its Summer Camp, this year under the name (eunited). This year’s Summer Camp which was implemented in two phases, brought together Palestinian children evacuated from Gaza, currently guests of the State of Qatar. Held in partnership with prestigious local organizations, the camps provided a safe and nurturing space for the children to engage in personal development, sportsmanship, and emotional well-being, through a series of inspiring and enriching activities. The (eunited) Summer Camp was first hosted at Aspire Academy in collaboration with Generation Amazing Foundation, View Hospital, AI Sports, and Toys4Me and took place in July. Over 55 children, aged 9 to 14, participated in a variety of activities, including football, basketball, kickboxing, educational sessions, and workshops focusing on arts and mindfulness. Then the (eunited) Summer Camp moved to Zulal Wellness Resort from August 14-25 and welcomed Palestinian children from Gaza, offering them a unique opportunity to explore their potential through activities promoting sportsmanship and self-development. His Excellency Dr. Cristian Tudor, the European Union Ambassador, expressed his pride in the success of both camps: "For the second year in a row, we have brought together some of the most prominent local organizations to create a safe space where children from Gaza were empowered to just be children and enjoy moments of pure joy. This year’s camp was special in that they provided these underprivileged children with a rare opportunity to relax, develop their skills, and experience a sense of normalcy amidst difficult circumstances.” The (eunited) Summer Camp was also made possible through the support of key local organizations and institutions, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Social Development and Family, Qatar Financial Centre, and the Olympic Sport Museum. The branding and communication aspect was designed by ZeroHunded. As the (eunited) Summer Camp came to a close, the EU Delegation, along with its partners, hope that the experiences provided will leave a lasting positive impact on the lives of the children and continue to offer them hope for the future.

Last Edit: April 18, 2025

The Delegation of the European Union to the State of Qatar is proud to announce the launch of the first EU Youth Short Film Festival, set to take place on November 24-25, 2024 at the Doha Beach Club. This two-day cultural event will bring together emerging filmmakers from both the European Union Member States and Qatar to showcase their work, exchange ideas, and celebrate the evolving art of short filmmaking, in a scenic environment at Doha Beach Club, by the sea.   With the theme “Frames, reframed,” the festival encourages filmmakers to explore the ever-changing landscape of visual storytelling. The slogan reflects the creative process of capturing moments and perspectives, both in literal and metaphorical frames, and then reshaping those frames to reflect new ideas and approaches. It serves as a call for artists to push boundaries and embrace innovative storytelling techniques.   The festival will also feature two masterclasses led by renowned industry professionals, offering attendees a unique opportunity to explore cutting-edge topics in filmmaking. Aspiring filmmakers and enthusiasts will gain insights into the transformative role of AI in film production and learn practical approaches to creating impactful short films using minimal resources.   On November 24, Rafael Antunes, Associate Professor in the Bachelor’s programme in Cinema, Video, and Multimedia Communication at Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, will lead a session on Transforming Film Production with AI Tools, exploring how AI enhances script analysis, visual planning, and audience engagement. On November 25, Pedro Canavilhas, Lisbon-based filmmaker and producer, and the co-founder of B’Lizzard Motion Pictures, and Hadeer Omar, an Egyptian media artist, designer, and Assistant Professor at Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar, will conduct a masterclass on Social Media Short Films, focusing on creating compelling content using only a smartphone or low-budget camera. These sessions will equip participants with the tools and knowledge to excel in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.   The EU Ambassador to the State of Qatar, Dr. Cristian Tudor, emphasized the significance of the event in fostering cultural exchange and strengthening ties between the European Union and Qatar: “This festival is more than just a celebration of creativity; it is a bridge between cultures. By bringing together filmmakers from Europe and Qatar, we aim to highlight the universal power of storytelling and build deeper connections between our communities. The theme ‘Frames, reframed’ perfectly captures the role of filmmakers in shaping how we see the world, and how we frame our feelings. We are excited to see the innovation and creativity that this event will inspire”. The festival is open to the public, and registration is required to attend. The Delegation of the European Union to the State of Qatar invites all film enthusiasts, students, and creatives to join them for this unique cultural experience. To register, please visit the event’s website at https://eufilmfestival.qa.   A heartfelt gratitude is extended to the partners, including the participating EU Member State Embassies, Northwester University Qatar, VCUarts Qatar, Georgetown University Qatar, Doha Beach Club, W Hotel Doha, Luxury Travel by Latifa, and the creative collaborators Zerohundred and Final Events, for their support in making this festival possible.   For more information and to stay updated on the event, follow @euinqatar on social media.

Last Edit: April 18, 2025

As we gear up for the highly anticipated EU Youth Short Film Festival: “Frames, Reframed,” taking place on November 24-25, 2024, at the scenic Doha Beach Club, the Delegation of the European Union to the State of Qatar is excited to highlight the diverse selection of films that will be screened during the event. This unique cultural festival brings together emerging filmmakers from the European Union Member States and Qatar, offering a platform for creative expression and cultural exchange through short films.

On Day 1, November 24, ten thought-provoking films will be showcased. “Index” by Greek filmmaker Nicolas Kolovos explores the emotional toll of illegal immigration on families, while Qatari filmmaker Khalifa Al Marri presents “Olayan,” a story about the pressure placed on a child to conform to manhood in a Bedouin environment. Bulgarian filmmaker Mariya Averina’s “Six Minutes of Happiness” takes viewers into the childhood memories of renowned writer Georgi Gospodinov, offering insight into the inspirations behind his work. In “Through Her Eyes,” Qatari filmmaker Lolwa Al Jassim explores the life of a mother raising a son with autism, while Nadia Khan, a student at Northwestern University, Qatar, presents “The Healing,” a moving story about a 16-year-old girl coping with the loss of her sister.

French filmmaker Djiby Kebe’s “L’Avance” delves into the story of Aliou, a rising student who sells a painting of his deceased mother to a renowned art collector. The poignant “A Mother’s Touch” by Northwestern University students Timaa Kamar and Noof Al-Hajri explores the enduring power of food to heal emotional wounds. Portuguese filmmaker Marco Espirito’s “Blood Brothers” follows a night in the life of a Portuguese bullfighting squad, while Maltese filmmaker Shirley Spiteri Mintoff’s “Alicia” offers a haunting exploration of grief and healing. Closing Day 1 is “Memory Mosaic” by Selma Fejzullaj, a student at VCUarts Qatar, which uncovers the hidden stories of Albania’s Muslim community during a time of religious suppression.

On Day 2, November 25, seven more remarkable films will be screened. Italian filmmaker Chiara Brambilla’s “A Dose of Nature” tells the emotional story of an adventurer’s recovery journey through nature after a major snowboarding accident. “Do You Remember Me?” by Qatari filmmaker Maryam Al-Mohammed explores the life of Areesha, a South Asian nurse caring for her mother with Alzheimer’s, while Dutch filmmaker Robert-Jonathan Koeyers’ “It’s Nice in Here” presents a fragmented portrait of a young Black girl’s memories. In “A Simple Cut,” Qatari filmmaker Maha Al Jufairi sheds light on the societal pressures faced by a young girl during her teenage years, and “Nashorn im Galopp” by German filmmaker Erik Schmitt captures the disconnection felt by a young man as he navigates the fast-paced life of Berlin. The final films of the day include “Unyielding Determination” by VCUarts Qatar students Alaa Albarazy and Shahd Al-Saad, which captures the essence of growth through tradition and self-awareness, and “The Choice” by Northwestern University student Yumin Cho, which sees a police officer make a critical decision as the stakes rise.

Professor Rafael Antunes, Associate Professor in the Bachelor’s programme in Cinema, Video, and Multimedia Communication at Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, expressed his excitement about the diverse selection of films, highlighting the cultural bridge being built between Europe and Qatar through these stories. He noted: “It is fascinating to see such a rich mix of cultural narratives and perspectives. These films, made by young filmmakers from different parts of the world, offer a unique window into their societies and personal experiences.”

The festival will culminate in an awards ceremony on November 25, where the winning films in two categories, Best Picture and Best Screenplay, will be announced. The jury, comprising Dr. Angelos Lenos, Prof. Pedro Canavilhas, Prof. Firat Oruc, Mrs. Latifa Regenbogen, and Mrs. Grace Cruz, will evaluate the films and select the winners.

The festival is open to the public, and registration is required to attend. Film enthusiasts, students, and creatives are invited to join this unique cultural experience. To register, please visit the event’s website at https://eufilmfestival.qa.

For more information and updates, follow @euinqatar on social media.

Last Edit: April 18, 2025

The first EU Youth Short Film Festival, Frames, Reframed, concluded on 25 November 2024 with great success at the Doha Beach Club, marking a unique collaboration between European and Qatari filmmakers. Over two days, the festival attracted a vibrant audience for the film screenings and masterclasses, showcasing the thriving art of short filmmaking across both regions. The festival highlighted the power of storytelling to connect cultures and foster understanding.

H.E. Dr. Cristian Tudor, Ambassador of the European Union to Qatar, expressed his appreciation for the event, stating: “This festival is a testament to the strong cultural bridges being built between the European Union and Qatar. The creativity and passion of these young filmmakers is what reframes the cultural ties between the EU and Qatar through telling their stories which resonate long after the festival has ended.”

The awarding ceremony, led by Dr. Angelos Lenos, Deputy Head of Mission of the EU Delegation to Qatar, announced the winners at the end it the event. Best Picture Award went to Olayan by Qatari filmmaker Khalifa Al Marri, a touching story of a young Bedouin boy’s bond with his camel. The jury praised the film for its emotional depth and compelling narrative of friendship and resilience. Al Marri commented saying: “This recognition means a lot to me. It’s not only a validation of my work but also a celebration of the stories we tell as a Qatari community.”

For Best Screenplay, It’s Nice in Here, by the Dutch filmmaker Robert-Jonathan Koeyers, stood out for its innovative storytelling and exploration of identity and social conflict. The award was accepted on behalf of the filmmaker by H.E. Ferdinand Lahnstein, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Ambassador Lahnstein expressed his delight saying: “It is an honor to accept this award on behalf of the Dutch filmmaker Robert-Jonathan Koeyers. This recognition reflects the power of cinema to connect cultures and share unique perspectives, something we are immensely proud of.”

Honorable Mentions were awarded to two Qatari films: Through Her Eyes by Lolwa Al Jassim, a moving portrayal of a mother raising a child with autism, and A Simple Cut by Maha Al Jufairi, which examines societal pressures faced by young girls.

The festival also featured insightful masterclasses at W Hotel, covering “AI in Filmmaking” and “Making Films for Social Media.” We would like to extend a special thank you to our esteemed speakers: Dr. Rafael Antunes, Associate Professor at Universidade Lusófona, Dr. Pedro Canavilhas, Lisbon-based filmmaker and co-founder of B’Lizzard Motion Pictures, and Hadeer Omar, Assistant Professor at Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar. Their expertise and contributions provided invaluable insights, sparking engaging discussions among aspiring filmmakers.

The Delegation of the European Union to Qatar extends its deepest thanks to the partners, including the participating EU Member State Embassies, Northwester University Qatar, VCUarts Qatar, Georgetown University Qatar, Doha Beach Club, W Hotel Doha, Luxury Travel by Latifa, and the creative collaborators Zerohundred and Final Events, for their support in making this festival possible.

As we look forward to next year’s edition, we are excited to continue fostering cultural ties between the EU and Qatar, inspiring future generations of filmmakers.

Please click here to view the winners and the photo gallery: https://eufilmfestival.qa/gallery/

Last Edit: April 18, 2025

Last Edit: April 18, 2025

The 8th EU-GCC Business Forum in Doha has brought together policymakers, business leaders, and innovators to discuss the future of cooperation between the European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). As H.E. Cristian Tudor, Ambassador of the European Union to Qatar, highlighted: “Today’s forum is a testament to the strength of the EU-Qatar relationship and the broader EU-GCC partnership.”

With discussions centered on vital sectors such as green innovation, digital transformation, healthcare, and tourism, the forum has emphasized the potential for collaboration in driving economic diversification and sustainability. Ambassador Tudor noted that Qatar’s progress in economic diversification, aligned with the EU’s own goals for sustainable growth, makes this partnership all the more promising.

As we look to the future, the EU and GCC continue to build stronger, more resilient economies that are equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow. We thank our partners, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry of Qatar and the EU-GCC Dialogue on Economic Diversification project, for making this event possible and for their ongoing support in fostering these important conversations.