Saudi Scientific Contribution to COVID-19 Published Research

Background: Credible scientific information plays a key role in the control of epidemics and pandemics.

Objectives: To determine the contribution of Saudi published research in Covid-19 scientific information as regards topics, study types, institutional and geographical distribution of Covid-19 research publications.

Methods: In this descriptive study, we conducted a literature search in Pubmed and Google Scholar by using the search terms: “Covid-19” OR “SARS-COV-2’’And “Saudi”. Abstracts of the articles were reviewed to identify relevant articles, and the data were analyzed using Epi Info statistical package.

Results: Out of the total 1,322 publications, 641 (48%) were review articles, 410 (31%) were original research articles and 195 (15%) were record-based clinical articles. Cross-sectional surveys comprised 84.6% of the original research; 57.9% of these surveys were conducted among the general population while 42.1% were among healthcare professionals. The highest proportion of publications was from universities (71%) and Riyadh (40.4%) province. The articles were published in 586 journals; among these 23 (3.9%) were Saudi journals.

Conclusion: Saudi researchers have made a significant contribution to COVID-19 publications. However, a scarcity of analytical and experimental studies was observed. Researchers need to focus on these study designs to better guide clinicians and policymakers for evidence-based guidelines and policies in the local context.