The Saudi Film Commission has for the first time opened submissions for the Oscars under the International Feature Film category.
Local filmmakers are invited to submit their work to represent Saudi Arabia at the 98th Academy Awards, in a major milestone toward increasing the Kingdom’s presence in the global cinema landscape, fostering Saudi talent and supporting local film industry.
Open until September 15, 2025, Saudi filmmakers can submit their feature-length films based on the official rules, eligibility criteria, and the guidelines for the selection process announced by the Film Commission, all aligning with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ regulations.
This move marks a major change from the past, when the Saudi Film Commission used to make direct nominations according to its own criteria.
Under the new process, a selection committee of independent film professionals and experts choose a film that best represents Saudi Arabia at the Oscars, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
In order to qualify, a film must be feature-length (over 40 minutes), predominantly in a non-English language (over 50%), and includes accurate English subtitles.
Moreover, its first theatrical release must take place between October 1, 2024 and September 30, 2025. The film must not have been released on streaming platforms, television, DVD, or similar formats prior to its theatrical release.
Also, creative control must lie with Saudi citizens, residents or individuals with recognized refugee or asylum status.
Furthermore, submission requirements include a digital version of the film and a secure link to view it, a full English list of cast and credits, the director’s bio and photo, designated key frame for display artwork, and proof of qualifying theatrical release and advertisements.
Inquiries and submissions should be sent to: SaudiFilmNominations@moc.gov.sa
