Aramco, in partnership with French quantum computing leader Pasqal, has deployed Saudi Arabia’s first quantum computer, marking a significant milestone for the Middle East’s technology landscape. The system, installed at Aramco’s data center in Dhahran, is the region’s first quantum computer dedicated to industrial applications.
The deployment is a pivotal step toward building regional expertise and accelerating the development of quantum solutions across the energy, materials, and industrial sectors in the Kingdom and the wider Middle East.
A New Frontier in Regional Computing
The newly installed system is a neutral-atom quantum computer capable of controlling 200 qubits arranged in programmable two-dimensional arrays. This powerful platform provides the necessary infrastructure to explore advanced quantum algorithms and develop real-world use cases relevant to complex industrial challenges.
The initiative aligns with Aramco’s broader strategy to leverage advanced digital technologies like AI and quantum computing to enhance operational efficiency, accelerate innovation, and unlock long-term value across its business.
Driving Energy and Industrial Innovation
Aramco plans to utilize the quantum computer’s capabilities to solve complex problems in the energy sector, from materials science to advanced manufacturing. The goal is to harness its computational power to pioneer next-generation solutions.
“This partnership marks a new frontier in computing,” said Ahmad O. Al-Khowaiter, Aramco’s Executive Vice President of Technology & Innovation. “Quantum technologies will open significant opportunities for energy innovation.”
Loïc Henriet, CEO of Pasqal, called the project “a historic milestone,” highlighting it as the company’s most powerful quantum computer deployed to date and a landmark achievement for the Middle East’s quantum future.
From Strategic Investment to Local Deployment
The partnership builds on a pre-existing relationship established through Aramco’s venture capital arm, Wa’ed Ventures. In January 2023, Wa’ed Ventures made a strategic investment in Pasqal, actively supporting the French startup’s efforts to localize its technology and establish a strong presence in Saudi Arabia.
This long-term vision has now culminated in the successful deployment of Pasqal’s hardware, demonstrating a clear pathway from strategic investment to tangible technological advancement within the Kingdom.
Building a Local Quantum Ecosystem
Beyond the hardware deployment, the collaboration includes a strong focus on talent development. Pasqal will provide comprehensive training programs and create joint research opportunities for Saudi engineers and scientists.
This initiative is designed to strengthen the Kingdom’s growing quantum ecosystem, foster homegrown expertise, and ensure that local talent is at the forefront of this emerging technological field.
About Aramco
Aramco is one of the world’s leading integrated energy and chemicals companies. It produces approximately one in every eight barrels of the world’s oil supply and develops new energy and chemical technologies. The company is driven by the core belief that energy is an opportunity and is committed to making a positive impact.
Source: Yahoo Finance
