Top Fast-Track Scopus & ISI Journals for Researchers in Saudi Arabia

Saudi academic institutions often set strict deadlines for:

Delays in publication can impact your entire academic or professional trajectory. Hence, identifying journals with short review timelines (typically 1–3 months) and moderate-to-high acceptance rates becomes a key strategy.

That said, fast publication should not come at the cost of credibility or academic integrity.

Finding fast-track journals doesn’t mean compromising on quality. You just need the right tools and strategy.

These platforms offer information about indexing, quartile, SJR score, and subject classification.

You input your paper’s title and abstract, and the tool recommends journals, often with estimated timelines for publication.

With the growing number of predatory journals, ensuring legitimacy is critical.

Knowing how to evaluate journals is key to choosing the right one.

Quartile Ranking (Q1 to Q4)

Q1 = Top 25% of journals in a field (highly competitive and prestigious)

Q2 & Q3 = Balanced between quality and accessibility

Q4 = Lower-tier journals that are still indexed but often faster in processing

Impact Factor vs. SJR

Impact Factor (Clarivate): Measures average citations in ISI journals.

SJR (Scopus Journal Rank): Evaluates prestige and influence based on citation links.

Acceptance Rate

Although rarely published, some Scopus Q3/Q4 journals have acceptance rates ranging from 20% to 40% — giving you a better chance if your paper meets the scope and guidelines.

Even the best research can be rejected if it doesn’t fit the journal. Matching your work to the journal’s mission increases your success rate.

Read the "Aims & Scope"

Make sure your paper aligns with the topics and priorities the journal publishes.

Adapt your abstract and key findings to reflect that alignment.

Choose the Right Keywords

Select 5–7 keywords that match those used by the journal.

Check similar papers in the journal and mirror their terminology.

Article Type Matters

Some journals only publish original research, while others allow reviews, short communications, or case studies.

Follow Reporting Guidelines

Use applicable checklists such as PRISMA, STROBE, or CONSORT to improve clarity and structure.

To improve your chances, go beyond just submitting a manuscript.

Write a Strong Cover Letter

• Introduce your research clearly and concisely.

• Mention how your paper aligns with the journal’s mission.

• Confirm that the submission is original and not under review elsewhere.

Include ORCID iD

• Most journals now require authors to have an ORCID profile for identity verification.

Use an Official Academic Email

• Submissions from a university domain (e.g., [email protected]) and adding your author affiliation appear more credible.

Suggest Reviewers (Optional but Helpful)

• Recommending reviewers can speed up the peer review process.

• Avoid suggesting anyone from your institution.

Declare Ethics and Funding

• For health, social, or funded research, provide ethics approval and funding source.

Publication can be overwhelming, especially under tight deadlines.

The publishing timeline varies depending on the journal and your preparedness.

Some journals offer fast-track or accelerated review options, especially for special issues.

Several universities in Saudi Arabia have established dedicated research centers and support offices to assist faculty and students in publishing their work in reputable Scopus- and ISI-indexed journals. These institutions provide valuable resources, including training, journal recommendations, and funding to help meet academic publishing requirements.

King Abdulaziz University (KAU), Jeddah — Offers research support programs and workshops focused on Scopus and Web of Science publications.

King Saud University (KSU), Riyadh — Houses a Scientific Research Deanship that provides assistance with journal selection, manuscript review, and funding for high-impact publications.

King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), Dhahran — Known for promoting publications in high-ranking indexed journals and providing publication fee support.

Imam Mohammad ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh — Provides guidance and training on publishing ethics and indexing databases.

Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh — Active in supporting female researchers to publish in internationally indexed journals.

Being aware of these resources and leveraging your university’s publication support services can significantly improve your chances of success in publishing your research within the required timeframes.