Saudi cinema has been gaining international momentum in recent years, and this week, it secured one of its biggest wins yet. Hijra, the latest film by Saudi director Shahad Ameen, has taken home the NETPAC Award for Best Asian Film at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival 2025, putting the Kingdom firmly on the map of world cinema.
The film follows 12-year-old Jana, who sets off on a pilgrimage to Mecca with her strict grandmother, Siti, and rebellious sister, Sara. When Sara suddenly disappears en route, Jana is thrust into a deeply personal journey filled with conflict, revelations, and family secrets that span generations. With its mix of spiritual undertones and raw human drama, Hijra is both a story of self-discovery and a reflection on the complexities of familial ties.
Ameen, best known for her bold and emotionally charged storytelling, has described the work as a deeply human tale that explores identity and belonging. The film was supported by Film AlUla, the Red Sea Film Foundation, and Ideation Studios, a testament to the growing ecosystem that is helping Saudi talent find global recognition.
“This is a historic win for Saudi cinema,” said Faisal Baltyuor, CEO of the Red Sea Film Foundation, noting that it is the first Saudi film to ever receive the NETPAC Award at Venice. He added that the victory highlights the scale of investment and support the Kingdom is giving to its film industry, and the ability of local creatives to bring Saudi stories to international audiences.
The success of Hijra follows a string of Saudi appearances at major festivals such as Cannes and Venice, as the country continues to cement its place on the global cinematic stage. More than a single accolade, this win signals a promising future for Saudi filmmaking, one that is rooted in local narratives but resonates worldwide.
