This paper addresses current issues and challenges in the study of saline lakes, which are widespread globally yet remain less studied than freshwater bodies. Based on an analysis of materials from the International Society for Salt Lake Research, global trends in the study of these ecosystems were identified: growing publication activity from researchers in China and Russia while the United States and Australia retain leadership, along with a predominance of descriptive and regional studies. Key latest research trends were determined: a shift from the concept of critical salinity towards studying functional ecosystem restructuring, analysis of cascade effects under changing salinity, and investigation of alternative stable states. Promising research directions are outlined, including the study of ion composition influence, carbon biogeochemistry, assessment of ecosystem services, and development of predictive models. Particular attention is given to the resource potential of saline lakes (mineral, biological, balneotherapeutic) and the methodological challenges associated with freshwater salinization issues. The necessity of an interdisciplinary approach for sustainable management of these unique ecosystems under anthropogenic changes is emphasized.