Scientific Cooperation between Russia and the MENA Countries: Challenges and Prospects

Introduction. Despite Russia’s significant scientific and technical potential, its influence in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region remains limited due to insufficient integration into international research projects, a low share of joint scientific publications, and undeveloped science diplomacy. The purpose of this study is to identify key areas and mechanisms that could expand Russia’s scientific cooperation with MENA countries and strengthen its position in the region’s science and technology sphere. Materials and Methods. The research is based on statistics from international organizations (UNESCO, WIPO, World Bank), the international patent database ORBIT Intelligence, scientific citation databases Scopus and Web of Science, as well as data from national scientific agencies and ministries of education and science of the region’s countries. The study employs comparative and structural analysis, bibliometric analysis of publications and patents, and data visualization in Excel to reveal collaboration networks. Results. The study found that MENA countries and Russia have potentially complementary scientific and technological profiles. Trends in scientific research in the Middle East and North Africa were characterized. Potential opportunities for cooperation were identified – in oil extraction with Saudi Arabia, in medicine with Israel, and in nanotechnology with Egypt. Promising areas for Russia’s cooperation with MENA countries include medicine (across 16 countries) and mechanical engineering (across 14 countries). Discussion and Conclusion. The practical significance of the study lies in identifying growth points for Russia’s science diplomacy: the development of joint competence centers and laboratories, and the expansion of participation in joint research projects confirm the need for a systemic approach to advancing Russia’s international scientific cooperation with MENA countries. The results can be used to formulate practical recommendations for strengthening bilateral and multilateral scientific ties, developing sustainable partnership formats, and establishing a long-term infrastructural basis for cooperation.