Saudi’s film commission is inviting local filmmakers to submit their works for a chance to represent the Kingdom at the 98th Academy Awards in the International Feature Film category. After years of the commission independently selecting entries based on its own criteria, the process is changing to a more transparent, inclusive, and industry-driven model; one that gives Saudi filmmakers a fairer opportunity to showcase their work, amplify their voices, and gain recognition on the global stage.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
For a body of work to be eligible, it must be a feature-length film (meaning that it should be over 40 minutes long) predominantly in a non-English language (at least 50% of it), accompanied by accurate and legible English subtitles. The film’s first theatrical release in Saudi Arabia must occur between Oct. 1, 2024, and Sept. 30, 2025, with no prior release via streaming, broadcast, DVD, or similar platforms before the qualifying theatrical run. Creative control must rest primarily with Saudi citizens, residents, or individuals holding recognized refugee or asylum status in KSA, ensuring that the project reflects authentic Saudi perspectives and storytelling.
Eligible submissions will be evaluated by a newly formed committee — which will operate independently from the Saudi Film Commission’s routine operations — through a structured review and voting process to determine which film will represent Saudi Arabia at the forthcoming edition of the Oscars, ensuring fairness, impartiality, and adherence to Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences regulations.
As things stand, the 98th edition of the Academy Awards is scheduled to take place on Mar. 15, 2026.
