Saudi Arabia took a significant step in the field of quantum computing by inaugurating, this Monday, its first quantum computer. The equipment is housed at the data center of state-owned oil company Aramco, resulting from a partnership with French company Pasqal, which specializes in neutral atom quantum computing.
In addition to the hardware, Aramco and Pasqal launched the Middle East's first commercial Quantum Computing as a Service (QCaaS) platform. The platform offers remote and secure cloud access to global clients, enabling the acceleration of quantum application development in sectors such as energy, materials, and industry.
“The computer provides immediate, low-latency access to quantum hardware to tackle complex industrial challenges,” the companies highlighted in a joint statement.
Aramco's Executive Vice President of Technology and Innovation, Ahmad O. Al Khowaiter, stated that 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 emphasized that “the world's most demanding industrial challenges are being addressed with the company's quantum processors, software, and specific solutions.”
The partnership between Aramco and Pasqal began with an investment from Aramco's venture capital division Wa’ed Ventures in Australia in January 2023. Since then, the companies have developed a structured quantum program that addresses high-value operational challenges, such as port logistics optimization, carbon dioxide storage, oil and gas well location, and drilling platform scheduling.