Hassan Al Thawadi

Source: Vinod Divakaran (licensed under CC by 2.0)

Hassan Al Thawadi

Sony Pictures International Productions (SPIP) has entered into a multi-year agreement with the Film Committee at Media City Qatar, for the co-financing of Arabic-language films from the Middle East and North Africa.

The partnership makes Sony the latest US studio to sign an agreement with Qatar’s Film Committee this weekend, after pacts with Neon, Department M and Miramax yesterday.

The agreement will see Sony develop a presence in Qatar, with a commitment to co-development and co-production of multiple Arabic-language films.

Projects may include original stories or adaptations from Sony’s library, managed by a local producer approved by both parties.

SPIP and the Film Committee will share approval on all key creative and financial decisions. Sony will handle global distribution on any projects to emerge from the pact, which will also set up a writers’ incubation lab to discover new writers. 

The announcement was made on the second day of the Industry Days at the inaugural Doha Film Festival. Shebhem Askin, executive VP of creative production and head of SPIP, gave a seminar at the industry conference on how international IP can inspire and empower local storytelling.

“The Middle East is one of the most dynamic and rapidly growing regions in entertainment,” said Steven O’Dell, international marketing and distribution at SPIP. “Sony Pictures has a long history of working in growing markets, and this new agreement in Qatar reflects our commitment to the region as we continue to bring impactful, locally resonant stories to audiences.” 

“This partnership underscores our shared belief that exceptional stories can come from anywhere – and reach everywhere,” said Hassan Al Thawadi, who has overseen the Industry Days as chairman of the Film Committee. “It will help elevate a new generation of talented Arabic filmmakers, giving them the platform, resources, and global exposure to share their voices with audiences around the world.” 

Doha Film Festival runs until Friday, November 28.

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