Bibliometric Analysis of Top Medical and Surgical Retinal Diseases Publications from Arab Institutes and Countries Between 2000 and 2025

Abstract

This bibliometric investigation mapped the evolution, magnitude, and regional distribution of research on medical and surgical retinal diseases across Arab countries from 2000 to 2025. Using data retrieved from Web of Science, the analysis incorporated peer-reviewed articles and reviews authored by clinicians and vision-science researchers affiliated with institutions in the Arab World. After rigorous screening, eligible records were analyzed to quantify publication trends, institutional contributions, and cross-country disparities in scholarly productivity. Results depicted a steadily rising trajectory in retinal research output over the past 25 years, with accelerated growth after 2010. This upward curve aligns with the expansion of ophthalmology residency programs, the increased availability of retinal imaging technologies, and heightened regional awareness of diabetic retinopathy and other high-burden retinal diseases. Comparative global mapping highlights the emergence of Arab countries as a developing research cluster, which is increasingly contributing to worldwide retinal science, despite lagging behind Western regions in absolute volume. The institutional distribution visualized in the abstract reveals that a limited number of universities—most notably King Saud University, Cairo University, and Université de Monastir—generate a disproportionate share of publications. This concentration reveals the impact of academic infrastructure, postgraduate training, and availability of subspecialty expertise on research output. Country-level visualization further demonstrates marked heterogeneity: Saudi Arabia leads the region, followed by Egypt and Tunisia. In contrast, several nations exhibit minimal scientific activity due to limited resources, workforce shortages, or insufficient research funding mechanisms. A synthesis of journal dissemination patterns indicates strong representation in reputable ophthalmology outlets, suggesting an improvement in scientific quality and greater international visibility of Arab-affiliated retinal research. Together, these insights highlight both regional progress and persistent gaps, emphasizing the need for coordinated strategies to strengthen research capacity, expand funding, and promote cross-country collaboration for sustained advancement in retinal science.