The Saudi Film Commission has announced on 10 August that filmmakers across the Kingdom can now submit their own works for consideration as Saudi Arabia’s official entry to the International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards.
This change marks the first time the country has introduced an open-call process, replacing the previous system in which the commission itself selected the entry internally according to its own standards.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the commission confirmed that the new process has been designed in line with the rules of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Officials described the move as part of broader efforts to strengthen the Kingdom’s visibility on the global film stage and to support the growth of Saudi cinema within the international cultural landscape.
The commission outlined a series of conditions that entries must meet to qualify. Submissions must be feature-length, running over 40 minutes, and predominantly in a language other than English, with accurate and legible English subtitles provided.
The first commercial theatrical screening in Saudi Arabia must occur between 1 October, 2024, and 30 September, 2025, and the film must run for at least seven consecutive days with paid admission. Prior to that qualifying release, the work cannot have been made available on television, cable, streaming services, DVD, or similar platforms. In addition, the majority of creative control must rest with Saudi citizens, residents, or individuals holding recognized refugee or asylum status.
To be considered, filmmakers are required to submit a digital version of the film alongside a secure, password-protected viewing link. The application must also include a full cast and crew list in English, a biography and photograph of the director, a selected still image for promotional purposes, and documented proof of the film’s qualifying release and related advertising.
According to the commission, once all entries are received, the selection committee will carry out a structured evaluation process before voting to determine the single film that will serve as Saudi Arabia’s official submission to the International Feature Film category. The body emphasized that the aim of this open process is to ensure a fairer and more inclusive pathway for Saudi filmmakers to reach one of the most prestigious stages in global cinema.
Filmmakers interested in participating have been directed to send all inquiries and submissions to [email protected].
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