Aramco and Pasqal have jointly inaugurated Saudi Arabia’s first quantum computer and the Middle East’s first commercial Quantum Computing as a Service (QCaaS) platform, marking a major step in the region’s advanced computing and industrial innovation journey. Located at Aramco’s data centre in Dhahran, the platform enables secure cloud-based access to quantum computing infrastructure for enterprises, research institutions and universities across the globe. The deployment is expected to accelerate research and commercial applications in energy, logistics, materials science, artificial intelligence and industrial optimisation.
The system is powered by Pasqal’s neutral-atom quantum technology and currently operates with 200 programmable qubits. Following its initial deployment in late 2025, the platform has now entered active operational status and will support industrial use cases requiring advanced computational capabilities beyond classical computing systems.
Executives from both companies highlighted the significance of the initiative in supporting Saudi Arabia’s long-term technology ambitions and industrial transformation plans. Ahmad O. Al Khowaiter, Executive Vice President of Technology and Innovation at Aramco, stated that the project will help develop local expertise in quantum technologies while supporting future energy innovation, lower-carbon solutions and operational optimisation.
Pasqal CEO WasiqBokhari said the collaboration demonstrates how quantum computing is moving from experimental research to practical industrial deployment. He added that the platform will support mission-critical industrial operations while opening opportunities for the broader regional technology ecosystem.
Under the partnership, Aramco will continue developing quantum-enabled industrial applications across areas such as port logistics optimisation, carbon storage management, well placement strategies, rig scheduling and advanced materials research. The collaboration also includes workforce development initiatives aimed at building quantum computing expertise within Saudi Arabia.
The QCaaS platform allows remote access to quantum hardware through a secure cloud environment, enabling external organisations to test and develop quantum-enhanced solutions for real-world challenges. Industry observers believe such infrastructure could position the region as an emerging hub for advanced computing research and industrial innovation.
Pasqal has rapidly expanded its presence in the global quantum technology sector since its establishment in 2019. The company develops high-performance quantum processors and software platforms designed for optimisation, simulation and artificial intelligence applications. Its client and partner network includes several global industrial and technology organisations.
The partnership between Aramco and Pasqal was further strengthened after Wa’ed Ventures, Aramco’s venture capital arm, invested in Pasqal in 2023 to support the localisation of quantum technologies and accelerate the development of the Kingdom’s advanced technology ecosystem. As industries increasingly seek high-performance computing solutions to address complex operational challenges, the launch of the region’s first commercial quantum computing platform is expected to create new opportunities for scientific research, industrial innovation and digital transformation across the Middle East.
Saudi Aramco is one of the world’s largest integrated energy and chemicals companies, engaged in the exploration, production, refining, and distribution of oil, gas, and petrochemical products. Headquartered in Saudi Arabia, the company operates across the entire energy value chain, with a strong focus on reliable supply, operational efficiency, and long-term resource management. Alongside its core hydrocarbons business, Aramco is investing in technologies and projects that support lower-emission energy solutions, including natural gas development, carbon management, and advanced materials, in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives.
