Research Productivity of Health Sciences Institutions in the UAE: 20-Year-Based Bibliometric Analysis

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has undergone a significant transition over the past two decades toward a diversified, knowledge-based economy. These transitions have been driven by governmental policy changes with the vision of placing the UAE at the forefront of medical research and innovation. Various initiatives to promote research and development in medical and allied health fields have been launched, such as improved research facilities, funding and grants to promote research, and building infrastructure for research and development. As a result of these efforts, a substantial increase in research outputs has been observed over the past two decades in medical and allied health research in the UAE. A bibliometric analysis of the research productivity of health sciences institutions in the UAE over the past 20 years showed that the number of research papers published has increased 18-fold, with most of the research focusing on diseases such as cancer, infections, and cardiovascular diseases. International collaborations in research have increased, with a high number of collaborations observed with advanced research nations like the United States of America (USA) and the United Kingdom. The analysis revealed a remarkable increase in quantity and quality of research output, and the strategic approach adopted by the government would expedite attaining its goal of positioning the UAE at the forefront of scientific research.