RIYADH — The King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) President Dr. Munir Al-Desouky confirmed that Saudi Arabia is among the top 50 countries in the world in the Nature Index 2021, for having the highest share of scientific research.

Saudi Arabia also maintained its position globally as the second highest contributor of scientific research in the Nature Index 2021 in West Asia and the Middle East and Africa (MEA).

Saudi Arabia also topped the Arab countries in all four disciplines of the natural sciences periodicals that were analyzed as well as being the highest contributor in the share of scientific research for each discipline.

Dr. Al-Desouky expressed his thanks and gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman for their continuous support and interest in research, development and innovation system.

He also stressed the steps taken by the wise leadership to enhance the Kingdom’s position in scientific research worldwide.

The steps include the establishment of the Research Development and Innovation Development Authority, which contributes to enhancing the Saudi Arabia’s opportunities in achieving advanced competitive ranks in scientific research.

The Research Development and Innovation Development Authority also contribute to consolidating Saudi’s leading position globally. The contributions aim to achieve the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, shifting towards an innovation-based economy.