What is the "Hijra" movie about?

"Hijra" follows a 12-year-old Saudi girl, her strict grandmother, and rebellious sister on a journey across the desert to Mecca to perform the Hajj pilgrimage.

Who is the director of "Hijra"?

The director of "Hijra" is Saudi filmmaker Shahad Ameen, whose previous film "Scales" was Saudi Arabia's Oscar entry in 2020.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Saudi Road Movie "Hijra" Chosen as Oscar Contender

Saudi Road Movie "Hijra" Chosen as Oscar Contender

Q: When was "Hijra" selected as Saudi Arabia's Oscar entry?

"Hijra" was selected as Saudi Arabia's candidate for the 2025 Academy Awards in the international feature film category.

15 Oct

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Summary

Saudi filmmaker Shahad Ameen's "Hijra" selected as Oscar entry
Film centers on 3 Saudi women's journey across the desert
Ameen's second feature after 2020 Oscar contender "Scales"

Saudi Road Movie "Hijra" Chosen as Oscar Contender

Saudi filmmaker Shahad Ameen's road movie "Hijra" has been chosen as Saudi Arabia's candidate for the 2025 Academy Awards in the international feature film category. This marks Ameen's second Oscar entry, after her 2020 feminist fable "Scales" represented the country.

"Hijra" centers on 12-year-old Janna, who embarks on a journey toward Mecca to perform the Hajj pilgrimage with her strict grandmother Sitti and rebellious 18-year-old sister Sarah. However, before they reach their destination, Sarah disappears, forcing Janna and Sitti into a tense and urgent search.

Filmed in the vast Saudi desert and several cities, including Jeddah, Medina, AlUla, and Neom, "Hijra" premiered positively at the Venice Film Festival's Spotlight section in September. The all-Saudi cast features newcomer Lamar Fadan in the lead role of Janna, alongside Khairia Nathmy as Sitti and Baraa Alem in a special guest appearance.