The feature film “Hijra,” directed by Shahad Ameen and produced by Mohammed Jabara Al-Darraji, continues to build momentum on the international festival circuit, consolidating its position as a leading example of the emerging voice of Saudi and Arab cinema on the global stage. Following successful screenings across Saudi Arabia and the Gulf, the film is set for a wider commercial rollout, beginning in Iraqi cinemas in early May, followed by releases in Egypt and the United Kingdom during the summer, alongside a digital debut on Shahid during Eid Al-Adha.
“Hijra” has sustained a strong presence across major international platforms, with official selections at the Habitat International Film Festival in New Delhi, Arabiske Filmdager in Norway, screenings at the Arab World Institute in France, as well as participation in the Millennium International Documentary Film Festival and the Malmö Arab Film Festival. The film is also scheduled for an extended Scandinavian tour.
Its upcoming festival calendar remains equally robust. The film will open the Cinémas du Sud Festival, feature in Saudi Film Nights in Spain on April 20, and participate in the 10th edition of the CASCADIA International Film Festival from late April through May. Further selections include the Seattle International Film Festival (May 7–17), SXSW London (June 1–6), and the Munich Film Festival (June 26–July 5). The film will also compete at the Saudi Film Festival (June 24–July 1).
Reflecting on the film’s trajectory, Ameen noted that its expanding reach underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing stature as a filmmaking hub capable of producing stories with global resonance. Al-Darraji added that “Hijra” carries a timely human message centered on resilience and cultural identity, reinforcing the international appeal of contemporary Arab storytelling.
Set against the backdrop of the Hajj season, the film follows a deeply personal journey that evolves into a spiritual odyssey for three generations of women from one family. The narrative traces their journey from Taif to Mecca, where the sudden disappearance of the eldest granddaughter sparks a broader search that explores intergenerational bonds and cultural continuity.
Shot across eight cities in Saudi Arabia, “Hijra” is written and directed by Ameen and features a cast including Khairiya Nazmi, Lamar Faden, Nawaf Al-Dhafiri, Raghad Bukhari, Abdul Salam Al-Huwaity, Lana Qumsani, Ghalia Ameen, and Baraa Alem. The production team includes cinematographer Miguel Littin Menz, production designers Chris Richmond and Ali Saad, and composer Armand Amar. The film is a co-production involving Faisal Baltoor, Ayman Jamal, Mohammed Alawi, Mohammed Hefzy, Ali Al-Darraji, and Abboud Ayyash, with backing from the Saudi Film Commission, Red Sea Fund, Film AlUla, NEOM, and Ithra.
With its expanding international footprint, “Hijra” continues to exemplify the evolving narrative and artistic ambitions of Saudi cinema on the world stage.
