Aramco, a leading global integrated energy and chemicals company that creates value and economic benefits to people and communities worldwide by providing energy supply to them has partnered with Pasqal, a global leader in neutral atom quantum computing technology to deploy the first quantum computer in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Aramco to install first quantum computer from Pasqal in Saudi Arabia

The partnership aims to deploy a 200-qubit quantum computer by the second half of 2025. Pasqal will install, maintain, and operate the system. The initial operations of the computer will be run on an ‘analog’ mode and by the following year, it will gradually shift to an upgraded ‘analog-digital’ mode which is more powerful and can solve more complex problems.

The goal of the partnership between Aramco and Pasqal is to leverage the advanced capabilities of quantum computing to identify new use cases. This is backed by an ambitious vision of setting up a powerhouse for quantum technology research in Saudi Arabia. This would involve the top academic institutions carrying out research at the center and creating an opportunity for breakthrough discoveries to be made thereby increasing the chances of quantum algorithm development in the country.

These steps are made to actualize the true potential of quantum computing and also lead the charge for this emerging technology in the energy sector. The use case identification from this engagement could help Aramco solve its most critical problems, especially around oil exploration, energy generation, and distribution.

Aramco EVP of Technology & Innovation

In the press briefing, Ahmad Al-Khowaiter, Aramco EVP of Technology & Innovation, said: “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. 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.”

Also, Georges-Olivier Reymond, Pasqal CEO & Co-founder, said: “The era of quantum computing is here. No longer confined to theory, it’s transitioning to real-world applications, empowering organisations to solve previously intractable problems at scale. Since launching Pasqal in 2019, we have directed our efforts towards concrete quantum computing algorithms immediately applicable to customer use cases. 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.”

Aramco’s investment fund, Wa’ed Ventures participated in Pasqal’s Series B fundraising round in 2023, opening a partnership window between the two companies. This agreement is an offshoot of a memorandum of understanding between Pascal and Aramco in 2022 to explore quantum computing capabilities and applications in the energy sector.

This engagement will accelerate the growth of Pasqal’s presence in Saudi Arabia having established an office in the Kingdom in 2023 and likely push its growth trajectory to a new high as it will be the only player within the region for a period.