KAUST Establishes Quantum Foundry To Advance National Quantum Hardware Development In Saudi Arabia

The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology has created the KAUST Quantum Foundry to expand Saudi Arabia’s capacity to build reliable quantum hardware for commercial use. The programme aims to connect advanced fabrication facilities with national innovation goals in science and industry.

Through structured, shared access to specialised quantum cleanrooms, the KAUST Quantum Foundry supports device prototyping and process development. Academic groups and industrial partners can work together on new quantum technologies, helping move research devices toward practical systems and encouraging coordinated development across the Kingdom.

The KAUST Quantum Foundry adopts a dedicated quantum operating model that differs from standard nanofabrication centres. The model stresses consistent processing routes and the creation of Process Design Kits, which give researchers standardised, well-documented methods for designing and fabricating quantum devices with predictable performance.

The programme builds on KAUST’s established cleanroom infrastructure and the expertise of KAUST Core Labs. By using these existing facilities, the KAUST Quantum Foundry acts as a focused national platform for advanced quantum device fabrication, while also supporting wider research needs across Saudi Arabia’s scientific and industrial communities.

The KAUST Quantum Foundry is being rolled out in stages, with capabilities increasing as processes, skills, and infrastructure develop. Over time, the initiative is expected to enable work on superconducting, photonic, and hybrid quantum platforms, offering users a range of compatible fabrication options.

As the programme matures, it is designed to create defined routes for technology transfer and early commercial activity. These routes will operate through KAUST’s innovation ecosystem, including the National Transformation Institute, helping translate laboratory advances into offerings that can be adopted by companies.

KAUST Quantum Foundry role in quantum technologies and national missions

By establishing the KAUST Quantum Foundry, KAUST strengthens its role as a national centre for advanced research infrastructure. The initiative supports long-term innovation priorities in Saudi Arabia and prepares the basis for future quantum applications across science, industry, and new technology sectors.

The KAUST Quantum Foundry also provides a common platform for applying quantum technologies to KAUST’s strategic missions. These technologies support breakthroughs in materials discovery and enable ultra-sensitive sensors, contributing to progress in energy, health, food, and water security for the Kingdom.

Working alongside artificial intelligence, quantum computing, simulation, and device capabilities developed through the KAUST Quantum Foundry address complex scientific challenges that classical tools cannot solve. These combined efforts turn national strategic priorities into sustained research outcomes with long-term impact for Saudi Arabia.

With inputs from SPA