Quantum Computer
Aramco signs agreement with Pasqal to deploy first quantum computer in the Kingdom
The installation of a 200-qubit quantum computer is scheduled to be deployed by the end of 2025.
Aramco, one of the world’s leading integrated energy and chemicals companies, has signed an agreement with Pasqal, a global leader in neutral atom quantum computing, to install the first quantum computer in Saudi Arabia.
The agreement will see Pasqal install, maintain, and operate a 200-qubit quantum computer, which is scheduled for deployment in the second half of 2025.
“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,” added Al-Khowaiter.
Georges-Olivier Reymond, Pasqal CEO and co-founder, said 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. Since launching Pasqal in 2019, we have directed our efforts toward concrete quantum computing algorithms immediately applicable to customer use cases,” said Reymond.
“Through this agreement, we'll be at the forefront of accelerating commercial adoption of this transformative technology in Saudi Arabia. This isn't just any quantum computer; it will be the most powerful tool deployed for industrial usages, unlocking a new era of innovation for businesses and society,” he added.
Escalating computing power
The quantum computer will initially use an approach called “analog mode.” Within the following year, the system will be upgraded to a more advanced hybrid “analog-digital mode,” which is more powerful and able to solve even more complex problems.
Pasqal and Aramco intend to leverage the quantum computer to identify new use cases, and have an ambitious vision to establish a powerhouse for quantum research within the Kingdom. This would involve leading academic institutions with the aim of fostering breakthroughs in quantum algorithm development — a crucial step for unlocking the true potential of quantum computing.
The agreement also accelerates Pasqal's activity in Saudi Arabia, having established an office in the Kingdom in 2023, and follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the companies in 2022 to collaborate on quantum computing capabilities and applications in the energy sector. In 2023, Aramco's Wa'ed Ventures also participated in Pasqal's Series B fundraising round.
Caption for the top photo: Pictured at the agreement signing are Raphaël Fauveau, Pasqal CFO, sitting left, and Nabil A. Al Nuaim, Aramco senior vice president of Digital and Information Technology, sitting right. Standing, from left, are Wasiq Bokhari, Pasqal chairman of the Board; Jamil J. Bagawi, Aramco senior vice president of National Champions; Amin H. Nasser, Aramco president and CEO; Georges Olivier Reymond, Pasqal co-founder and CEO; and Ahmad O. Al Khowaiter, Aramco executive vice president of Technology and Innovation.