Quantum computing Saudi Arabia has advanced significantly with the launch of the first quantum computing system in the Kingdom and the Middle East’s first commercial platform for quantum computing services, announced by Saudi Aramco and Pasqal on May 18, 2026. The quantum computer is housed in a data center in Dhahran and provides remote access to quantum processing capabilities through a secure cloud platform.
The system uses neutral atom technology and controls 200 programmable qubits. The processor was first used in November 2025 and represents the transition from testing to operational deployment supporting industrial use cases. External organizations, including research centers, universities, and companies across the region, can now access the quantum computing platform remotely.
Quantum Computing in Saudi Arabia Takes Shape
The partnership between Saudi Aramco and Pasqal began in January 2023 when Aramco Ventures, the company’s venture capital arm, first invested in the French quantum computing firm. Ahmed Al-Khowiter, Executive Vice President for Technology and Innovation at Saudi Aramco, said the achievement reflects contributions from national researchers, engineers, and scientists.
“Through investment in training and joint research, we are building world-class capabilities in quantum technologies in the Kingdom,” Al-Khowiter stated. The initiative supports development of next-generation energy solutions, accelerates low-carbon fuel development, improves reservoir management, and strengthens supply chains.
Applications Across Energy and Industrial Sectors
Saudi Aramco’s quantum computing workstreams target high-value operational challenges. Current applications include port logistics optimization, carbon dioxide storage improvement, well location identification, and drilling platform scheduling. The hybrid quantum-classical approaches are designed to address complex industrial problems that exceed the capabilities of traditional computing.
Wasiq Bokhari, Chief Executive Officer of Pasqal, noted that the deployment demonstrates how quantum processors and specialized software are being used to tackle the world’s most complex industrial challenges. “Using our system in Saudi Aramco’s critical operations while making it available to companies and research communities across the region is core to our mission,” Bokhari said.
Pasqal’s Global Quantum Platform
Pasqal, headquartered in France, has developed high-performance quantum hardware and cloud-ready software since 2019. The company employs over 275 people and serves more than 25 clients and partners, including Saudi Aramco, CMA CGM, OVHcloud, Thales, IBM, and Sumitomo. Pasqal is part of the IBM Quantum Network and has raised over 500 million dollars in total funding from major international investors.
The company is pursuing a listing on the NASDAQ exchange through a merger with Bleichroeder Acquisition Corp. II (Nasdaq: BBCQ). The platform targets optimization, simulation, and artificial intelligence applications across industrial and scientific sectors.
Regional Technology Development and Workforce
The quantum computing initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader technology advancement goals. The partnership supports workforce development in quantum computing and establishes regional expertise in a field where few systems exist globally. By making the platform available to research institutions and companies across the Middle East, the initiative aims to accelerate quantum solution adoption and regional innovation capacity.
The platform’s availability enables researchers and industry practitioners to develop and test quantum algorithms for real-world challenges in energy, materials science, and manufacturing, supported by secure cloud infrastructure.
