Lights, camera, ambition. The Saudi Film Commission Oscars has officially opened submissions for the Kingdom’s first-ever open entry to the 98th Academy Awards in the International Feature Film category.

This shift from internal selection to a transparent, inclusive call is a cinematic milestone and one that signals Saudi cinema stepping onto the global red carpet.

A Fresh Chapter for Saudi’s Oscars Journey

Previously, the Saudi Film Commission nominated its Oscars entries based on internal criteria. Now, for the first time, local filmmakers can proactively submit feature-length films for consideration, bringing creative voices from corners often unheard.

Films eligible must have had their first theatrical run in Saudi Arabia between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025, with at least a week of commercial screening.

Importantly, they must be predominantly non-English language (over 50%) and must not have been released via streaming or TV prior to this theatrical window. The submission deadline is September 15, 2025, according to the Saudi Gazette.

Selection Committee

Alongside submission criteria, the Film Commission unveiled a newly formed, independent nomination committee made up of film professionals and experts. This team will evaluate picks using Academy-aligned guidelines—meaning fairness, transparency, and credibility become part of the process. It’s a message that Saudi Arabia means business about its cinematic identity and its international footprint.

A Cinematic Renaissance in the Making

Saudi cinema has come a long way. Since the 2018 lifting of a long-standing cinema ban, the film industry has changed, building theatres, backing local talent, and launching film festivals like Red Sea International.

The Saudi Film Commission, founded in 2020, has amplified those efforts, launching programs such as Film Saudi (a 40% cash rebate for local productions) and the Daw’ Competition.

Notable films like Wadjda (directed by Haifaa al-Mansour), Saudi Arabia’s first submission to the Oscars in 2013, and Norah, which premiered at Cannes 2024.

A Path Towards Cinematic Engagement 

This moment is a milestone for the Saudi Film Commission’s Oscars journey because it reinforces the Kingdom’s growing influence in global cinema.

By opening submissions for the Academy Awards, the Commission is not only showcasing the creativity, artistic brilliance, and cinematic spirit of Saudi filmmakers but also strengthening the country’s position as a serious contender on the world stage.

• Empowerment Through Access: Filmmakers now have a clear pathway to international recognition.
• Cultural Dialogue: Saudi stories from desert life to modern complexities now compete on global stages.
• Global Visibility: Submissions signal Saudi Arabia’s ambition to be part of cinematic conversations worldwide.
• Artistic Confidence: Today’s open call is tomorrow’s Oscar nominee in potential.

This year’s participation at the Locarno Film Festival (Aug 6–16, 2025) further cements the Kingdom’s cinematic ambitions.

The Submission Checklist

Submission inquiries should go to the email with rules aligned with official Academy guidelines: www.oscars.org/oscars/rules-eligibility

Saudi Films On The Rise

Outstanding films like Wadjda and Norah reflect Saudi Arabia’s cinematic potential. Wadjda, directed by al-Mansour, premiered at Cannes and was the first Saudi entry ever. And the film Norah earned the Cannes mention in 2024 being backed by the Film Commission’s Daw fund.

Now, with an open Oscars entry system in place, a new generation of storytellers from urban tales to desert psychology has the chance to reach global audiences on their terms. Saudi cinema is standing up, submitting, and sharing.

Now, more than ever, the world is tuning in, ready to let Saudi stories roll across the silver screen from comedy, action, thriller, and dramas.

FAQs

When is the deadline to submit films to the Saudi Film Commission for the Oscars 2025?
The Saudi Film Commission typically sets the submission deadline for late August or early September. Filmmakers should check the official website for the confirmed 2025 dates.

What are the eligibility criteria for the Saudi Film Commission Oscars submissions?
Saudi Arabia must predominantly produce the films, and they must follow the Academy’s official rules for the International Feature Film category. Additionally, each film must screen in a Saudi cinema for at least seven consecutive days within the eligibility period.

How can Saudi filmmakers apply for the Oscars submission process?
Filmmakers apply through the Saudi Film Commission’s online portal. They upload the film, submit the required documents, and provide technical specifications that meet Academy standards.

Has a Saudi film ever been nominated for an Oscar?
Saudi Arabia has submitted films in previous years but has yet to receive a final nomination. However, each submission showcases the Kingdom’s expanding cinematic achievements and global ambitions.

What support does the Saudi Film Commission offer to submitted films?
The Commission supports films with promotion, international festival exposure, and PR campaigns. It also partners with distributors and cultural organizations to boost each film’s presence in the global awards circuit.

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