Doha Film Festival 2026 Unveils Dynamic Music Programme Celebrating Regional Voices and Global Sounds

The Doha Film Festival (DFF) has unveiled its 2026 music programme, bringing together an exciting mix of regional trailblazers, international performers and emerging musical voices from 19 to 27 November. Presented by the Doha Film Institute (DFI), the programme celebrates music as a universal language capable of connecting cultures, communities and generations.

Spanning hip-hop, R&B, electronic music, Afrobeat, contemporary Arabic sounds and experimental performances, the programme reflects the diversity and creative energy of today's global music landscape. It also highlights the growing influence of regional artists who are using music to express identity, share personal experiences and address social and cultural issues.

One of the programme's major highlights is the participation of Grammy-nominated Australian artist RY X, who will perform alongside the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. Renowned for his atmospheric sound and emotionally resonant performances, RY X has collaborated with international artists including Drake, Diplo and John Legend. His appearance promises a distinctive musical experience combining contemporary songwriting with the depth and atmosphere of orchestral performance.

Regional hip-hop will take centre stage through a line-up featuring established innovators and emerging performers. Palestinian pioneering group DAM will bring its influential musical identity to the festival. Known for powerful lyrics addressing social realities, identity and belonging, the group has become one of the defining voices of Arab hip-hop.

Joining them is JUNO-nominated Iraqi Canadian rapper, academic and cultural entrepreneur NARCY, whose work explores contemporary Arab identity and the cultural possibilities of hip-hop.

Qatar's growing music scene will be represented by local artists SaaD and Swaydee, alongside EZ9, a Sudanese rapper based in Qatar. Their participation reflects the country's evolving creative landscape and the growing presence of local rap and DJ culture.

Sudanese talent will also feature prominently in the programme. Sudanese Saudi rapper Dafencii combines contemporary hip-hop with Arabic musical influences, while Marsimba, the duo formed by Maz Mars and Seido Simba, brings together Sudanese musical traditions, Afrobeat and contemporary rhythms.

Sudanese rapper and singer Nadine El Roubi blends hip-hop, R&B and neo-soul, creating a sound that reflects the fluidity of contemporary musical expression. Meanwhile, Sudanese British singer Elmiene is recognised for his expressive vocals, introspective songwriting and modern approach to soul music.

A new generation of regional artists will further enrich the programme. Jordanian singer, songwriter and producer Dana Salah will bring her distinctive contemporary sound to the festival, while Palestinian Italian singer-songwriter TÄRA represents a new wave of artists building audiences across cultures and digital platforms.

UK-based Yemeni producer Intibint explores the intersections of downtempo, alternative R&B and hip-hop. Saudi-based emerging singer Mishaal Tamer will also participate, bringing a global musical identity shaped by his movement between Arabic, English and Spanish.

The international line-up will be further strengthened by Malaysian singer-songwriter Yuna, who gained international recognition through her hit collaboration with Usher on the song "Crush".

Beyond music performances, Doha's Brava Dance Studio, dedicated to training local performers in dance and aerial arts, will also contribute to the programme, highlighting the festival's commitment to different forms of artistic expression.

Commenting on the programme, Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, CEO of Doha Film Institute and Director of Doha Film Festival, said:

"Music is one of the most powerful art forms that bring people together, across borders, languages and culture in experiences that resonate with us all."

She also highlighted how a new generation of artists across the Arab world is redefining contemporary sounds while using music to express identity, lived experiences and social and cultural issues.

With this diverse line-up, Doha Film Festival continues to expand its cultural experience beyond cinema, offering audiences an opportunity to discover new musical voices, celebrate regional creativity and experience music as a powerful means of cultural connection.

Doha Film Festival 2026 will take place from 19 to 27 November 2026. Its key partners include Katara, Media City Qatar, the Film Committee and Visit Qatar.

For further information and programme updates, visit the official website: www.dohafilm.com/en.