Saudi Arabia took a significant step in the technology race by inaugurating its first quantum computer on Monday. The equipment is housed at the data center of state-owned oil company Aramco, the result of a collaboration with French company Pasqal, which specializes in neutral-atom quantum computing.
In a joint statement, Aramco and Pasqal also announced the launch of the Middle East's first commercial Quantum Computing as a Service (QCaaS) platform. The platform aims to accelerate the development of quantum applications in sectors such as energy, materials, and industry. “The computer provides customers with immediate, low-latency access to quantum hardware through a secure cloud platform to tackle complex industrial challenges,” the statement said.
Aramco's Executive Vice President of Technology and Innovation, Ahmed O. Al Jowaiter, said the introduction of the quantum computer “will drive the next generation” of energy solutions and accelerate the development of low-emission fuels. Pasqal CEO Wasiq Bokhari highlighted that “the world's most demanding industrial challenges are now being addressed with our quantum processors, software, and specific solutions.”
Aramco's venture capital division in Australia, Wa’ed Ventures, initially invested in Pasqal in January 2023, aiming to bolster efforts to localize advanced quantum technologies and accelerate the development of the quantum ecosystem in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. Since then, the two companies have developed a structured quantum program that “addresses high-value operational challenges across multiple work areas,” with the goal of unlocking “capabilities that go beyond classical computing.”
Aramco's work streams include optimizing port logistics, carbon dioxide storage, locating oil and gas wells, scheduling drilling platforms, and making quantum computing available across the region.