Saudi Arabia's First Quantum Computer Launch: A New Era for Computing in the Middle East

Aramco and Pasqal Debut Saudi Arabia's First Quantum Computer

In an exciting development for the tech landscape in the Middle East, Aramco, a global leader in energy and chemicals, has officially inaugurated Saudi Arabia's first quantum computer. This milestone was achieved in collaboration with Pasqal, a renowned company specializing in quantum computing utilizing neutral atom technology. Along with the quantum computer launch, the two companies unveiled the first commercial 'Quantum Computing as a Service' (QCaaS) platform in the region. This innovative initiative promises to facilitate growth in regional expertise and revolutionize the development of quantum applications across various sectors, including energy, materials, and industry.

The QCaaS platform represents a significant milestone in the region’s technological evolution, allowing potential customers from around the globe to access these quantum computing resources remotely via the cloud. The quantum computer is housed at Aramco's data center in Dhahran and offers customers immediate low-latency access to quantum hardware. This capability is set to enable businesses to tackle complex industrial challenges in unprecedented ways.

Ahmad O. Al Khowaiter, Aramco’s Executive Vice President for Technology and Innovation, highlighted the achievement as a testament to the dedication of Saudi researchers, engineers, and scientists. He emphasized the importance of investing in collaborative training and research projects within the Kingdom, with the aim of establishing premier quantum expertise. This knowledge is expected to propel the next generation of energy solutions, accelerate the development of low-carbon fuels, and optimize reservoir management and supply chains. Al Khowaiter remarked, "May this achievement serve as a catalyst for an innovation-driven economy, creating impactful job opportunities for our youth and advancing Saudi Vision 2030."

Wasiq Bokhari, CEO of Pasqal, underscored the significance of this launch for the company too. He stated, "Aramco is not just waiting for quantum computing; it is helping to shape it as a leading global player. This launch demonstrates that the world's most challenging industrial problems can now be addressed through Pasqal's quantum processors, software, and specific solutions. For us, deploying our system in Aramco's critical operations, while simultaneously making it available to regional businesses and the research community, is part of our mission to enable practical, large-scale quantum computing today."

Since its operational inception in November 2025, Pasqal has focused on delivering powerful hardware and cloud-capable software to solve intricate challenges in optimization, simulation, and artificial intelligence. The Pasqal Quantum Processing Unit (QPU), which operates based on neutral atom technology, governs 200 programmable qubits. With the inauguration of this quantum computer, businesses are now offered the opportunity to explore and develop quantum-enhanced solutions for real-world industrial challenges.

As part of their collaboration, Aramco will take on the role of a reference customer, advocating a roadmap of use cases on a production-ready QPU while accelerating the development of quantum-hybrid solutions for its energy, materials, and industrial processes. Moreover, external organizations—including research institutes, universities, and businesses—will have the opportunity to access one of the few quantum computers globally via Pasqal’s cloud platform.

In January 2023, Wa'ed Ventures, Aramco's domestic venture capital arm, made its first investment in Pasqal. This strategic move aims to bolster efforts to establish advanced quantum technologies locally and advance the development of the regional quantum ecosystem. Since then, Aramco and Pasqal have developed a structured quantum program focusing on addressing complex operational challenges across diverse fields, where quantum-hybrid approaches can unlock opportunities that surpass the limitations of classical computing.

Target applications at Aramco include optimization of port logistics, CO₂ storage optimization, site selection for drilling operations, drilling operation planning, building a skilled workforce within the Kingdom, and the extensive deployment of quantum computers throughout the region.

About Aramco

As one of the world’s leading integrated energy and chemicals companies, Aramco is committed to making a positive impact in everything it does, from providing essential oil supplies to developing new energy technologies. The company focuses on making its resources more reliable, sustainable, and useful, thus fostering growth and productivity worldwide.

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About Pasqal

Pasqal is a global leader in scalable, practical quantum computers based on neutral atom technology and specialized software for industries, research, and government applications. Since its founding in 2019, Pasqal has leveraged Nobel Prize-winning research to develop powerful quantum systems and cloud-capable software that address complex challenges in optimization, simulation, and artificial intelligence. With its headquarters in France and over 275 employees serving more than 25 customers and partners, including Aramco, Pasqal is well-positioned for ongoing growth and innovation in the quantum landscape.

Pasqal has raised over $500 million in funding from prominent international investors and is planning a merger with Bleichroeder Acquisition Corp. II (Nasdaq: BBCQ) to advance the global rollout of scalable, powerful quantum computers.