Aramco Partners With Pasqal For Saudi Arabia's First Quantum Computer

Aramco, a leading integrated energy and chemicals company, has announced a significant agreement with Pasqal, a global leader in neutral atom quantum computing. This partnership will see the installation of the first quantum computer in Saudi Arabia. Pasqal will install, maintain, and operate a 200-qubit quantum computer, scheduled for deployment in the second half of 2025.

The initial phase will employ an "analog mode" approach. Within a year, the system will be upgraded to a more advanced hybrid "analog-digital mode," capable of solving more complex problems. Ahmad Al-Khowaiter, Aramco's Executive Vice President of Technology and Innovation, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the importance of adopting impactful technologies in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Georges-Olivier Reymond, CEO and Co-founder of Pasqal, noted that quantum computing is transitioning from theory to real-world applications. This technology empowers organizations to solve previously intractable problems at scale. The agreement aims to accelerate the commercial adoption of quantum computing in Saudi Arabia.

Pasqal and Aramco plan to leverage the quantum computer to identify new use cases. They envision establishing a powerhouse for quantum research in Saudi Arabia, involving leading academic institutions. This collaboration aims to foster breakthroughs in quantum algorithm development, crucial for unlocking the true potential of quantum computing.

The agreement also increases Pasqal's activity in Saudi Arabia. Pasqal established an office in the Kingdom in 2023. In 2022, Aramco and Pasqal signed an MoU to collaborate on quantum computing capabilities and applications in the energy sector. Additionally, Aramco's Wa'ed Ventures participated in Pasqal's Series B fundraising round in 2023.

The deployment of the 200-qubit quantum computer is set for the second half of 2025. The initial "analog mode" will be upgraded to a hybrid "analog-digital mode" within a year. This upgrade will enhance the system's capability to solve more complex problems.

Aramco's commitment to pioneering new technologies is evident through this partnership with Pasqal. The collaboration aims to position Saudi Arabia as a leader in quantum computing research and application, benefiting both the energy sector and broader technological advancements.

This agreement between Aramco and Pasqal marks a significant step towards integrating advanced quantum computing capabilities within Saudi Arabia. By fostering collaboration with academic institutions and leveraging new technologies, both companies aim to drive innovation and solve complex challenges at scale.

With inputs from SPA