Saudi Arabia Deploys First Quantum Computer With Aramco & Pasqal

Saudi Aramco, in partnership with French quantum-computing specialist Pasqal, has deployed the Kingdom’s first quantum computer. The computer is also the first in the Middle East dedicated to industrial use.

The 200 qubit neutral atom system is installed at Aramco’s Dhahran data centre to support quantum applications across energy, materials and industrial sectors in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East.

The partnership includes talent development, joint research and localisation of quantum technologies to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s quantum ecosystem. Wa’ed Ventures, part of Aramco’s venture capital programme, invested in Pasqal in January 2023 and has since supported the company’s localisation efforts in the Kingdom.

As part of the collaboration, Pasqal will provide training programmes and joint research opportunities for Saudi engineers and scientists.