Aramco and technology firm Pasqal officially inaugurated Saudi Arabia’s first quantum computer and the first commercial Quantum Computing as a Service (QCaaS) platform in the Middle East, a development aimed at accelerating the advancement of industrial applications in sectors such as energy, materials, and logistics.
The infrastructure was installed at Aramco’s data center in Dhahran, allowing companies, universities, and research institutions remote access to quantum hardware via a secure cloud platform.
Additionally, the system offers low latency and immediate access to processing capabilities designed to address complex challenges that exceed the limitations of classical computing.
A Quantum Computer Geared Towards Industrial Applications
The new QCaaS platform incorporates a Quantum Processing Unit (QPU) developed by Pasqal based on neutral atom technology. The system currently controls 200 programmable qubits and was designed to execute advanced optimization, simulation, and artificial intelligence tasks.
Aramco explained that the initiative is part of a strategy to strengthen the Kingdom’s technological infrastructure and develop local capabilities in quantum computing.
Ahmad O. Al Khowaiter, Aramco’s Executive Vice President of Technology and Innovation, noted that the project will drive research related to low-emission fuels, reservoir optimization, and improvement of industrial supply chains.
The executive added that the initiative seeks to consolidate an economy driven by technological innovation and generate specialized jobs aligned with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
Quantum Computing Applied to the Energy Sector
The alliance between both companies began to solidify in 2023 following an investment by Wa’ed Ventures, Aramco’s venture capital arm, in Pasqal.
Since then, both organizations have developed programs focused on solving high-value operational problems using quantum-hybrid approaches.
Identified applications include:
- port logistics optimization
- CO₂ storage
- well placement
- drilling rig scheduling
- development of specialized talent in quantum computing
Additionally, the platform will allow external organizations to access one of the few operational commercial quantum systems in the world.
Middle East Accelerates Its Commitment to Quantum Computing
Pasqal believes that the deployment of this infrastructure represents a sign of regional progress in advanced computing technologies.
Wasiq Bokhari, CEO of Pasqal, stated that Aramco is actively participating in the industrial adoption of quantum computing and highlighted that quantum processors are already beginning to be used to solve complex industrial challenges.
The French company has been developing quantum hardware and software since 2019 and specializes in neutral atom-based architectures, a technology considered promising for its scalability and energy efficiency.
With this inauguration, Saudi Arabia positions itself among the countries that already have operational commercial quantum infrastructure and strengthens its strategy to diversify its economy through emerging technologies.
Source and photo: Aramco