Yemeni-Scottish filmmaker Sara Ishaq’s civil war drama *The Station* will open the revamped Doha Film Festival, running from 19–27 November in Qatar. The film follows Layal, who operates a women-only petrol station that becomes a refuge during Yemen’s conflict, and explores the war’s effects through her attempt to prevent her brother’s enlistment. Its selection highlights the festival’s aim to promote underrepresented regional stories and encourage dialogue through cinema.

Based on real events, the film reflects Yemen’s recent history, including a conflict that killed around 150,000 people and pushed many others towards famine, amid fears of renewed fighting. *The Station* premiered positively at Cannes Critics’ Week and features mostly non-professional Yemeni actors; it is supported by the Doha Film Institute and produced by companies from several countries. The revamped festival expands the former youth-focused Ajyal Film Festival, adding international, short-film, youth-juried and Qatar-focused competitions.