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Aramco Ventures to Open New Office in Paris

In a significant move aimed at enhancing its global presence in innovation, Aramco Ventures, the venture capital arm of Aramco, has announced its plan to establish a new office in Paris, France, set to open in 2026. This step is part of Aramco's long-term strategy to diversify its business operations and embrace advanced technologies that drive energy transformation.

With a capital allocation exceeding $7 billion, Aramco Ventures plays a pivotal role in identifying and investing in innovative startups across various sectors. The Paris office will serve as a vital hub, providing access to France's vibrant innovation ecosystem, recognized internationally for its strengths in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, industrial digitalization, and quantum computing.

France: A Strategic Hub for Innovation

France is increasingly establishing itself as one of the leading centers for artificial intelligence and digital innovation within the European Union. This transformation has been fueled by bold governmental initiatives and the emergence of a dynamic ecosystem comprising startups, universities, researchers, and investors. Noteworthy programs such as the National Quantum Strategy and national investments in AI have positioned France as an attractive destination for global technology investments.

Complementing this momentum are esteemed academic institutions like Université Paris-Saclay, which ranks first in Europe for mathematics, physics, and engineering, alongside innovation platforms like Station F, the world's largest startup campus.

Ahmad O. Al Khowaiter, Executive Vice President of Technology and Innovation at Aramco and President of Aramco Ventures, stated, "Aramco is leveraging advanced technologies that have the potential to address some of the world's most complex challenges. Aramco Ventures, as our global venture capital program, plays a critical role by funding startups and high-growth companies that are at the forefront of innovation, from sustainability to industrial AI. This enhances Aramco’s diversification and strengthens its competitive edge. Through the new Paris office, Aramco Ventures will broaden its international presence, contributing to the exciting scientific and technological advancements occurring in France, which is one of the top three venture capital markets in Europe, and across the European region."

Building on Existing Successes in France

Aramco is not a newcomer to the French research ecosystem; it already operates a fuel research center in Paris, focusing on energy, transportation, and environmental solutions. Furthermore, its venture capital programs have made investments in two French startups: Pasqal, renowned for its developments in quantum computing, and Prophesee, which specializes in neuromorphic vision platform technologies designed to enhance the efficiency and intelligence of video processing systems. With its Paris office, Aramco Ventures seeks to deepen collaboration with French founders, institutions, and investors, helping scale next-generation technologies in areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, deep tech, and sustainability.

About Aramco Ventures

Aramco Ventures is the venture capital division of Aramco, one of the world's leading integrated energy and chemicals companies. Headquartered in Dhahran with offices in North America, Europe, and Asia, its strategic venture capital programs invest globally in emerging and high-growth companies that hold strategic technological importance to Aramco. This supports the company's efforts in operational decarbonization, low-carbon fuel business initiatives, and digital transformation efforts. Aramco Ventures also oversees Prosperity7, its investment program targeting disruptive technologies.

For more information, visit www.aramcoventures.com.