Saudi Arabia Establishes Quantum Valley To Launch First Quantum Computer And Recognise Top Innovators

The Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Saudi Arabia recently wrapped up the "World Quantum Day 2025" activities. This event was organised in collaboration with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST). Attendees included Dr. Munir bin Mahmoud El-Desouki, President of KACST, and numerous experts in future technologies from both within and outside Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Talal bin Ahmad Al-Sudairy, Senior Vice President of KACST for Research and Development, highlighted ongoing efforts to establish a Quantum Valley in partnership with Aramco and the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA). This initiative aims to leverage strategic alliances with major quantum companies like IBM and Pasqal to operate the first quantum computer in Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Basma Al-Buhairan, Managing Director of the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Saudi Arabia, emphasised that "quantum science is no longer confined to theoretical frameworks; today, it has become a main driver for developing practical solutions that meet societal needs and help address global challenges." The event also celebrated innovative startups through the "Quantum for Society" challenge.

The challenge, launched by the Centre alongside the World Economic Forum’s UpLink platform, aimed to support startups using quantum technologies to tackle global issues like climate change, sustainability, healthcare, and water management. Among the honoured startups was Germany's Planqc, which developed quantum computers to enhance supply chains and accelerate drug development.

UK-based Quantum Dice created advanced algorithms to boost energy efficiency in computing processes. Brazil's Qnity introduced a high-precision solution for detecting molecular interactions to speed up drug discovery. In environmental tech, Spain's PlanetaiSpace initiated "QUANTUM-AQUA," employing satellite technologies and quantum machine learning for early groundwater depletion detection.

In healthcare innovations, UK startup Quantasphere developed solutions enhancing data security through quantum technology. Finland's Algorithmiq offered a software platform linking quantum and classical systems for drug discovery and personalised treatment plans. US-based Xairos introduced quantum time-transfer technology providing precise global timing crucial for telecommunications networks.

Exploring Quantum Applications

The event featured panel discussions on quantum applications in critical areas such as healthcare, cybersecurity, computer science, education, and communications. These sessions addressed governance importance and investment strategies essential for advancing quantum transformation. Workshops by the Saudi Society for Quantum Computing explored advanced concepts like "entanglement swapping."

An exhibition showcased both historical milestones and future prospects of quantum sciences. This event aligns with Saudi Arabia’s efforts to bolster its standing in future technologies while supporting its "quantum economy" project. April 14 has been designated as an annual celebration of quantum science following the United Nations’ declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology.

With inputs from SPA