2026 Oscars: These Are The Arab Films Shortlisted For The Best International Feature Film

With the 98th Academy Awards just over the horizon, there’s excitement in the region as Arab talent is deservedly put in the spotlight.

Following the recent announcement by the Academy, it was revealed that four Arab-produced films have been shortlisted among 15 titles competing for Best International Feature – a historic first in Arab cinema.

Naturally, the Middle East and the world are watching closely as the four films in contention reflect the growing landscape and depth of Arab talent and storytelling. With narratives that are resonant to personal experiences and history, three out of the four films feature powerful Palestinian stories, while also spotlighting female Arab directors – a sure testament to the voices shaping the region’s film industry.

With just mere weeks left before the official nominations on January 22, 2026, GRAZIA takes a closer look at the Arab films taking on the international stage.

ALL THAT’S LEFT OF YOU

All That’s Left Of You, directed by Cherien Dabis, in which she stars alongside Mohammed Bakri, Saleh Bakri, Maria Zreik, and more, unfolds an intimate story of a family across three generations from the West Bank, detailing the forced displacement. This film marks Dabi’s third feature film and has already gained recognition beyond borders.

Officially selected as the Palestinian submission for the 2026 Oscars, Palestine 36 is a historical drama set on the Arab Revolt in 1936-1939, which was under the British Mandate period. The film stars Hiam Abbass as the role of Hanan, Palestinian actor Saleh Bakri as Khalid, and Karim Daoud Anaya as Yusuf, who plays the leading role.

The Voice of Hind Rajab

Directed by the acclaimed Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania, The Voice of Hind Rajab details the devastating real-life story of five-year-old Hind Rajab, who was trapped under a car during an attack. The film centres on her harrowing phone call with Red Crescent Volunteers who try to do everything they can to stay connected as they attempt to reach the adolescent with an ambulance.

The President’s Cake

Written and directed by Hasan Hadi, The President’s Cake marks the Iraqi filmmaker’s directorial debut. The film is set in 1990s Baghdad, and follows the lead of nine-year-old Lamia, played by Baneen Ahmed Nayyef, as she embarks on an arduous task of gathering ingredients for a mandatory birthday cake for then-President Saddam Hussein.

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