In a landmark move for the advancement of technology in Saudi Arabia, energy titan Aramco has announced a strategic partnership with quantum computing frontrunner Pasqal. This collaboration will result in the establishment of the kingdom’s inaugural quantum computer, marking a milestone in the region’s tech evolution.
Under the terms of the arrangement, Pasqal will be responsible for the installation, upkeep, and operation of a 200-qubit quantum computer set to be operational in the latter half of 2025. Initially utilizing an ‘analog mode’, the quantum system is poised to transition to a superior ‘analog-digital mode’ after the first year, amplifying its capacity to tackle even more complex computational challenges.
Aramco is delighted to partner with Pasqal to bring cutting-edge, high-performance quantum computing capabilities to the Kingdom. 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,
stated Ahmad Al-Khowaiter, Aramco’s Executive Vice President of Technology and Innovation.
Georges-Olivier Reymond, CEO and Co-founder of Pasqal, expressed that quantum computing is making the leap from theoretical concepts to practical applications, empowering organizations to solve complex problems at an unprecedented scale. He emphasized that the agreement will propel the commercial utilization of this revolutionary technology in Saudi Arabia.
Both Pasqal and Aramco envision leveraging the quantum computer to discover new applications and aim to build a quantum research hub within the Kingdom. This initiative will include prominent academic entities to advance quantum algorithm development, an integral component for harnessing the full capabilities of quantum computing.
The partnership also signifies an expansion of Pasqal’s presence in Saudi Arabia. After establishing an office in the kingdom in 2023 and signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Aramco in 2022 to explore quantum computing in the energy sector, Pasqal has witnessed increased engagement with Aramco, including an investment from Aramco’s Wa’ed Ventures during Pasqal’s Series B funding round.