Research on the exploration and development of hot dry rock is significant for promoting the global energy transition, achieving sustainable utilization of clean energy, and supporting carbon neutrality goals. To comprehensively and macroscopically understand the latest research progress and technological trends in the field of hot dry rock exploration and development, a bibliometric analysis and thematic exploration of relevant papers and patents were conducted. The trend of publication, the trend of patent application, the distribution of major countries and institutions, research topics and research hotspots were analyzed. The results indicate that the global research in the field of hot dry rock is in a period of rapid development, and China has occupied a dominant position in basic research and technology research and development, but there is still room for improvement in research quality and internationalization process. The research hotspots focus on five key areas, including geothermal energy extraction and utilization, genesis and resource exploration of hot dry rock, reservoir mechanical properties and heat storage construction, reservoir monitoring and evaluation, and seismic prediction and control. Among them, the coupling mechanism of high temperature environment and stress, low temperature fracturing technology and the application of nuclear magnetic resonance technology are important research fields in recent years. Although the development and utilization of hot dry rock is gradually entering the engineering demonstration stage, the commercialization still faces challenges such as technical bottlenecks, environmental risks, and insufficient economic viability. Future efforts should focus on advancing geophysical exploration technologies, enhancing heat reservoir modification techniques, optimizing hydraulic fracturing and drilling processes, investigating the dynamic evolution of fracture networks and long-term stability of heat reservoirs, and improving heat extraction and heat exchange efficiency. Additionally, strengthening the integration of fundamental research and applied technologies is critical to overcome technical challenges, reduce development costs, and promote the sustainable utilization of hot dry rock resources.