The Arab Cinema Center (ACC) has honored Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, CEO of the Doha Film Institute (DFI), with its prestigious Arab Cinema Personality of the Year Award for 2025. The award, which recognizes outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of Arab cinema, will be presented to Alremaihi during the 78th Cannes Film Festival, running from May 13th to 24th.
Alremaihi’s appointment to the award comes in recognition of her pioneering efforts in supporting and developing the Qatari, Arab, and global film industries. Since becoming CEO of DFI in 2014, Alremaihi has been at the helm of key initiatives like the Ajyal Film Festival and Qumra, which provide platforms for emerging filmmakers and nurture the next generation of creative professionals. Her leadership has also positioned the DFI as a crucial supporter of Arab and international film projects that have garnered success and recognition worldwide.
Alremaihi, a Doha native, graduated with a degree in English Literature from Qatar University and joined DFI at its inception in 2009. Over the years, she has spearheaded programs that focus on talent development and forging global industry relationships. Her work has earned her a place among the 500 most influential business leaders in the entertainment sector, as recognized by Variety.
The co-founders of the Arab Cinema Center, Alaa Karkouti and Maher Diab, expressed their pride in bestowing this honor on Alremaihi, highlighting her tireless dedication to advancing the Qatari, Arab, and international film scenes. “Her efforts have elevated the Arab film industry, making it a significant presence on the world stage,” they stated.
In response to the award, Alremaihi expressed her gratitude, emphasizing how this recognition reflects Qatar’s commitment to building a dynamic film industry. “At the DFI, we believe in the power of storytelling to connect, inspire, and transform,” she said. “This award strengthens our commitment to nurturing diverse voices and cultivating a rich cultural legacy, while reaffirming Qatar’s dedication to promoting global storytelling.”
Alremaihi’s influence extends beyond the film industry, as she is also a member of the Advisory Committee for Qatar Museum’s Lusail Museum. This museum is set to become a major hub for research and dialogue between the Arab world and regions including Europe, Africa, and Central and South Asia. Her contributions to the arts have been recognized with the Officier de L’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres award from the French government, among other accolades. Furthermore, she has served on juries for prestigious film festivals like Sarajevo, Antalya, Nara, and Mumbai.
The Doha Film Institute, under Alremaihi’s leadership, continues to be a driving force in Qatar’s vision for a knowledge-based economy. Through initiatives such as funding and producing local and international films, mentoring filmmakers, and hosting film events, the DFI plays a key role in the development of Qatar’s creative industries.
Alremaihi’s tenure has seen the DFI become a vital partner for filmmakers across the MENA region and beyond, supporting over 900 projects from more than 75 countries. Notable films like IT MUST BE HEAVEN, CAPERNAUM, THEEB, MEMORIA, and THE SALESMAN have received widespread acclaim, with many finding success at global film festivals. These projects reflect the institute’s ongoing commitment to producing and promoting high-quality films that resonate with audiences worldwide.
Karkouti and Diab also highlighted the importance of Alremaihi’s leadership in continuing the growth of regional cinema. “Her presence at the DFI has been reassuring, and under her guidance, we can expect continued growth in the regional film industry—growth that will benefit the global film community,” they said.
Previous recipients of the Arab Cinema Personality of the Year Award include prominent figures such as Mohannad Al-Bakri, Managing Director of the Jordanian Royal Film Commission; Mouhamad Keblawi, Founder of the Malmö Arab Film Festival; and Mohamed Hefzy, producer, screenwriter, and former Head of the Cairo International Film Festival.
The Arab Cinema Center’s recognition of Alremaihi underscores the vital role she plays in shaping the future of cinema in the Arab world and beyond, celebrating the diverse voices that make up the global film landscape.
