Film Commission Announces 2025 Oscars International Feature Film Award Rules, Selection Committee Process

The Film Commission announced today the official rules, eligibility criteria, and selection process for Saudi Arabia’s submission to the 98th Academy Awards in the International Feature Film Award category. These procedures fully adhere to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences regulations and provide comprehensive details on committee formation, film eligibility, and submission instructions for filmmakers seeking consideration.
 This undertaking is part of the commission's efforts to strengthen the presence of Saudi cinema in international forums and enhance the Kingdom’s position in the global film industry.
 The commission has formed a selection committee composed of independent film industry professionals and experts. The committee operates in accordance with the guidelines of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, ensuring transparency, fairness, and impartiality in the selection process.
 All eligible submissions will be reviewed and discussed by the committee members, who will participate in a structured voting process to select the film that will represent Saudi Arabia.
 To be considered for the International Feature Film Award, submissions must meet the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences' official criteria. Films must be a feature-length motion picture (over 40 minutes) and be predominantly in a non-English language (more than 50%). All submissions must also include accurate and legible English subtitles.
 The film's first theatrical release in Saudi Arabia must occur between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025. This release must be a qualifying commercial run of at least seven consecutive days with paid admission.
 Films must not have been publicly exhibited or distributed via broadcast, cable, streaming, DVD, or similar platforms prior to their qualifying theatrical release.
 Creative control of the film must be predominantly in the hands of Saudi citizens, residents, or individuals with recognized refugee or asylum status.
 Filmmakers representing Saudi Arabia and seeking consideration for its official entry to the 98th Academy Awards must ensure their films meet all eligibility requirements, including a qualifying theatrical release in Saudi Arabia within the specified timeframe. The following materials must be submitted: A digital upload of the film for streaming purposes, a secure and password-protected link to the film, a full cast and credits list (in English), director’s biography and photograph, a designated key frame for streaming display artwork, and proof of qualifying theatrical release and advertisements.
 Details on the official rules and eligibility requirements are available on the academy’s website: https://www.oscars.org/oscars/rules-eligibility.
For all inquiries and submission, please contact: SaudiFilmNominations@moc.gov.sa