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Aramco Ventures Expands to Paris

Introduction
In a significant move, Aramco Ventures, the venture capital branch of Saudi Aramco, has declared its plans to establish a new office in Paris, France, set to open in 2026. This decision underscores the company’s growing commitment to global innovation, demonstrating its ambition to invest in next-generation technologies essential for the diversification and transformation of its core energy business.

Strategic Expansion with Global Implications
With a staggering $7 billion capital allocation, Aramco Ventures has positioned itself as a key player in identifying and investing in innovative startups across various sectors. The new Paris office will serve as a vital resource, enabling access to France's and Europe's dynamic innovation ecosystem, known for its strengths in artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, industrial digitization, and quantum computing.

France is quickly emerging as a premier hub within the EU for AI and innovation, thanks to bold government initiatives and a mature ecosystem comprised of startups, universities, research institutions, and investors. Noteworthy efforts, such as the national quantum strategy and investments in AI, make France an appealing destination for global technological investments.

Academic institutions like Université Paris-Saclay, ranked top in Europe in mathematics, physics, and engineering, juxtapose perfectly with innovation platforms such as Station F, recognized as the largest startup campus in the world. This vibrant environment is what attracted Aramco Ventures to base their new office in Paris.

Voices from Leadership
Ahmad O. Al Khowaiter, Executive Vice President of Technology and Innovation and Chairman of Aramco Ventures, remarked, “Aramco leverages cutting-edge technologies to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Aramco Ventures plays a pivotal role by financing startups at the forefront of innovation in areas from sustainability to industrial AI. This strategic office in Paris will enhance our international presence and contribute to promising scientific and technological advancements in France, one of Europe’s leading venture capital markets.”

Building on Existing Successes in France
Aramco is not new to the French research ecosystem. The company operates a research center in Paris focused on energy, transportation, and environmental issues. Furthermore, Aramco’s venture capital programs have already made notable investments in French startups: Pasqal, a quantum computing firm, and Prophesee, which develops a neuromorphic vision platform aimed at enhancing the efficiency and intelligence of video processing systems. The Paris office will enhance collaboration with founders, institutions, and investors in France, facilitating the development of next-generation technologies in AI, quantum computing, deep tech, and sustainable development.

About Aramco Ventures
Aramco Ventures operates at the forefront of technological advancement as the venture capital arm of Aramco, one of the world’s largest integrated energy and chemicals companies. With its headquarters in Dhahran and offices across North America, Europe, and Asia, Aramco Ventures strategically invests in high-growth startups and businesses with technologies of strategic importance to its parent company, Aramco. The investment programs primarily support initiatives aimed at operational decarbonization, lower carbon fuels, and digital transformation. Aramco Ventures also manages Prosperity7, the company’s investment program in disruptive technologies. For more information, visit www.aramcoventures.com.