Purpose
This survey-based study aims to explore the research data dissemination and requesting practices of Arab researchers. It investigates the reasons, types, methods, barriers and motivations associated with data sharing and requesting in the Arab research community.

Design/methodology/approach
A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 205 Arab researchers representing various disciplines and career stages. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis.

Findings
The study found that 91.2% of Arab researchers share data, while 56.6% access data from others. Reasons for sharing include promoting transparency and collaboration while requesting data is driven by the need to validate findings and explore new research questions. Processed/analysed data and survey/questionnaire data are the most commonly shared and requested types.

Originality/value
This study contributes to the literature by examining data sharing and requesting practices in the Arab research community. It provides original insights into the motivations, barriers and data types shared and requested by Arab researchers. This can inform future research and initiatives to promote regional data sharing.