The General Commission for Audiovisual Media explained that the system for approving and classifying films in the Kingdom was adopted after numerous benchmarking comparisons with global and neighboring Gulf countries. This was done to ensure an entertainment experience similar to that in Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and the Kingdom of Bahrain, in line with the business models of international distribution companies. The Commission emphasized that no content will be shown unless it has been approved by the Commission, and the regulatory procedures are strict and periodic to protect viewers from any harmful content that could negatively impact the behavior or thoughts of society.

The Commission confirmed that the classification is suitable for all age groups and includes six categories: the “G” category means that the film is suitable for all ages; the “PG” category indicates that parental guidance is advised for those under 12 years old when attending; “PG12” requires an adult to accompany those under 12 years old in cinemas; the “R12” classification prohibits viewing for those under 12 years old; the “R15” classification bans viewing for those under 15 years old; and the “R18” classification prevents those under 18 from viewing films containing violence or horror scenes.

The Commission also clarified that there is a clear mechanism for monitoring compliance with this classification, starting with the initial review of the film's content. This review focuses on several criteria, including national interest, religious incompatibility, public morals, harm to children, infringement of intellectual property rights, or incitement to illegal activities. Through this process, the content is evaluated to determine whether it is suitable for approval.

The second phase involves approving the content and making notes on the scenes that need to be removed or modified. These notes are then sent to the distribution company for editing. Afterward, the film is re-examined to ensure that the changes have been made, and an appropriate classification is assigned. Finally, distribution companies coordinate with cinemas to ensure that the film is shown according to the approved age classification.