Data Sources and Citation Metrics
The 5th edition of the Research.com Best Economics and Finance Scientists in Saudi Arabia Ranking is primarily based on bibliometric data drawn from OpenAlex and CrossRef, supplemented by multiple other reputable data sources. These platforms represent some of the most comprehensive and widely recognized databases within the academic research community, providing extensive coverage of publication and citation records. The citation-based metrics used in the ranking were collected on January 12, 2026, ensuring the data reflects recent scientific contributions. Each scientist’s position in the ranking is determined by their D-index (Discipline H-index), a metric that includes only papers and citation data specifically related to the discipline of Economics and Finance, thereby offering a precise measurement of scholarly impact within the field.
Scope of Research and Ranking Criteria
The ranking examines a total of 279,971 scientist profiles identified from diverse bibliometric data sources across all disciplines. Within this broad pool, 11 scientists specializing in Economics and Finance were specifically analyzed for this edition. To qualify for inclusion in the ranking, researchers are required to have a D-index of at least 30, with a majority of their tier publications situated in the Economics and Finance domain. Additionally, consideration is given to relevant awards and notable achievements within the discipline, reflecting both scholarly output and recognition by the scientific community.
The D-index threshold for including top researchers is adjusted incrementally by 10 points depending on the estimated total number of scholars within each discipline, ensuring that the ranking consistently encompasses the top 1% of leading experts. Furthermore, a proximity criterion is applied whereby the difference between a scientist’s general H-index and their D-index must not exceed 30%, enhancing the focus on discipline-specific impact.
Verification and Validation Practices
Recognizing the limitations of relying solely on raw bibliometric data to evaluate scholarly output, the Research.com team has undertaken meticulous manual verification of all scientist profiles featured in the ranking. Each profile was cross-correlated with publication records from an extensive range of trustworthy and authoritative sources to confirm the accuracy of the underlying data. While not directly influencing the ranking position, the number of papers published in prominent journals and respected conference proceedings is regarded as a valuable secondary indicator of a researcher’s contribution within Economics and Finance.
Positions in the ranking are ultimately established based on each researcher’s D-index calculated from comprehensive data collected through OpenAlex and CrossRef, among the most prominent bibliometric databases accessible to the global research community. For a detailed overview of the methodologies applied in constructing this ranking, we encourage readers to visit our methodology page.
Research.com’s Mission and Vision
At Research.com, our mission is to inspire researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers worldwide to explore the trajectories of leading experts in various fields. By revealing who the foremost contributors are in specific areas of study—be it by discipline, country, or institution—we aim to foster greater awareness and collaboration within the global scientific community. This ranking serves as a reliable and transparent resource for identifying thought leaders in Economics and Finance in Saudi Arabia, underpinned by rigorous data analysis and a commitment to quality and credibility.
