From Palestinian hip-hop pioneers and emerging Arab artists to international performers and a special orchestral collaboration, the festival celebrates diverse musical voices from around the world.
Doha Film Festival (DFF), presented by the Doha Film Institute (DFI), has unveiled its music programme for the 2026 edition, taking place from 19 to 27 November. Bringing together regional trailblazers, international performers and emerging artists, the line-up highlights music’s ability to connect cultures, communities and generations.
Spanning hip-hop, R&B, electronic music, Afrobeat, contemporary Arabic sounds and experimental performances, DFF Music extends the festival experience beyond cinema, giving audiences an opportunity to discover diverse musical perspectives.
Among the programme’s highlights is a special performance by Grammy-nominated Australian artist RY X, who will take to the stage with the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. The collaboration will combine his atmospheric songwriting with the expressive depth of a symphonic performance.
Regional hip-hop takes centre stage with Palestinian group DAM, known for its socially conscious lyrics, alongside JUNO-nominated Iraqi Canadian rapper and cultural entrepreneur NARCY. Qatar’s growing music scene will be represented by SaaD, Swaydee and Sudanese rapper EZ9.
The programme also celebrates Sudanese talent through performances by Dafencii, Marsimba, comprising Maz Mars and Seido Simba, Nadine El Roubi and British Sudanese singer Elmiene. Their music draws on influences ranging from contemporary hip-hop and Afrobeat to R&B and neo-soul.
Other regional artists include Jordanian singer-songwriter Dana Salah, Palestinian Italian performer TÄRA, UK-based Yemeni producer Intibint and Saudi-based singer Mishaal Tamer. Malaysian singer-songwriter Yuna, known for her international collaboration with Usher on “Crush”, adds a global dimension to the line-up. Doha’s Brava Dance Studio, which trains performers in dance and aerial arts, will also participate.
Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, CEO of Doha Film Institute and Director of Doha Film Festival, said the programme celebrates music as a powerful means of cultural expression and connection.
For more information, visit www.dohafilm.com.
