Saudi Arabi Getting First Quantum Computer

Quantum computing company Pasqal has agreed to supply the first quantum computer in Saudi Arabia for energy and chemicals company Aramco.

Under the agreement, Pasqal would install, maintain and operate a 200-qubit neutral-atom quantum computer, scheduled for deployment in the second half of 2025.

“In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, we believe it is crucial to seize opportunities presented by new, impactful technologies and we aim to pioneer the use of quantum computing in the energy sector,” said Aramco executive vice president of technology and innovation Ahmad Al-Khowaiter.

“Our agreement with Pasqal allows us to harness the expertise of a leading player in this field, as we continue to build state-of-the-art solutions into our business. It is also further evidence of our contribution to the growth of the digital economy in Saudi Arabia.” 

Pasqal and Aramco plan to use the quantum computer to identify new use cases. They also intend to work with academic institutions to kickstart quantum research in Saudi Arabia to advance quantum algorithm development.

“The era of quantum computing is here. No longer confined to theory, it's transitioning to real-world applications, empowering organizations to solve previously intractable problems at scale,” said Pasqal CEO and co-founder Georges-Olivier Reymond.

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“Through this agreement, we'll be at the forefront of accelerating commercial adoption of this transformative technology in Saudi Arabia.”

The partners will initially use the quantum computer in analog mode, which is less versatile but less prone to noise and errors. The following year, they plan to upgrade the system to hybrid analog-digital mode, which is more powerful and can solve more complex problems.

Pasqal established an office in Saudi Arabia in 2023 and signed a memorandum of understanding with Aramco in 2022 to collaborate on quantum computing capabilities and applications in the energy sector.