Saudi Arabia Announces 'Hijrah' As Official Entry For Best International Feature Film At Oscars

Saudi Arabia is showcasing its dedication to global storytelling through its participation in the Oscars. The Saudi Film Commission (SFC) has revealed that 'Hijrah' will represent the Kingdom at the 98th Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category. This decision was made by a committee of notable Saudi filmmakers and industry experts who evaluated the films based on the Academy's standards.

The film 'Hijrah' exemplifies Saudi Arabia's rich cultural identity and diverse storytelling. It presents an artistic exploration of significant social themes through a human-centric lens. The narrative follows three Saudi women from different generations on a pilgrimage to Mecca, which turns tragic when Sarah disappears before reaching the city. The grandmother and granddaughter then embark on a challenging desert journey, revealing hidden family secrets and highlighting generational differences among women.

This selection process involved a specialised committee that adhered to precise nomination criteria. Their efforts reflect Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to supporting its creative industries and sharing unique stories with audiences worldwide. The film will compete against numerous international submissions, undergoing several selection stages before potentially being shortlisted by the academy.

Directed by Shahad Ameen, 'Hijrah' features performances from both emerging Saudi talents and established figures in the film industry. The film's journey at the Oscars will begin with an initial list announcement, followed by a final shortlist determined by the academy. The winner of this category will be announced at the 98th Academy Awards ceremony, set for March 2026 at Los Angeles' Doly Theatre.

The participation of 'Hijrah' in such a prestigious event underscores Saudi Arabia’s dedication to promoting its cinematic productions on an international stage. This involvement not only highlights local storytelling diversity but also showcases the Kingdom's cultural richness through cinema.

This milestone is significant for Saudi Arabia as it continues to support its creative sectors and share its unique narratives globally. By participating in events like the Oscars, Saudi Arabia aims to foster greater understanding and appreciation of its culture and stories worldwide.

With inputs from SPA