Scientific research is the main driver of healthcare development. Therefore it is a duty and responsibility of healthcare professionals to contribute towards the body of scientific knowledge to serve both patients and profession. However, despite the increased growth in global scientific output, research output from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) , such as the MEAN region, remains modest both in quality and quantity. In this assay we discuss the challenges faced by researchers in the MENA region, and  lay down some concepts they could use to achieve research excellence regardless of the surrounding environment, and hopefully play and important role in promoting innovation and progress in their societies.