Umm Al-Qura University has achieved a historic academic milestone, reflecting the rapid development of higher education in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The university recorded a significant leap in global scientific research indicators, with a growth exceeding 73% in research citations, according to data from the prestigious Scopus database. This achievement strengthens the university's international standing and directly supports the goals of Vision 2030, which aims to build a knowledge-based economy.
Background of the achievement in the context of Vision 2030
Within the framework of its ambitious Vision 2030, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia places paramount importance on developing its research, development, and innovation ecosystem. The Ministry of Education is working to empower Saudi universities to become leading global centers of learning, capable of competing and producing knowledge that serves comprehensive national development. Umm Al-Qura University, with its rich history and spiritual significance in the heart of Mecca, is a cornerstone of this system. It has successfully transformed its heritage into a driving force for modern academic and research excellence, benefiting from generous government support aimed at developing research infrastructure and attracting exceptional talent.
Growth details in numbers
The figures reflect the significant progress the university has made. Over the past five years, its total scientific output has reached 14,136 peer-reviewed papers. In the last year alone, the university published 5,523 indexed research papers, marking a record increase of 56% compared to 2021. This growth was not only quantitative but also qualitative, with the number of citations of the university's research jumping from approximately 216,000 to over 374,000, representing a 73% increase. This figure demonstrates the growing global influence and scientific credibility of the university's research within the international academic community.
Quality of research outputs and investment in human resources
The university emphasizes the quality of its output, with Q1 journals accounting for the largest share of published research at 39.2%, followed by Q2 journals at 26.8%. More importantly, nearly one-fifth of the university's research is ranked among the top 10% globally in terms of impact. This research activity is accompanied by significant investment in national talent, with the appointment of 882 assistant professors, the promotion of 657 faculty members, and the sponsorship of 636 highly qualified individuals to pursue postgraduate studies at leading international universities.
Importance and expected impact
Domestically, this achievement contributes to accelerating the transition to a knowledge-based economy, supplying the labor market with qualified personnel, and providing innovative solutions to national challenges. Regionally, this progress reinforces the Kingdom's position as a leading center for higher education and scientific research in the Middle East. Internationally, it raises the rankings of Saudi universities and enhances their reputation, opening broader horizons for international research collaboration and attracting global talent, and underscoring the Kingdom's active role in enriching human knowledge.
