Saudi Arabia's King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) has partnered with French quantum computing firm Pasqal to advance quantum cryptography research and commercialize quantum-safe cryptographic solutions.
The collaboration, formalized during a ceremony at the King Salman Science Oasis in Riyadh on World Quantum Day, will focus initially on quantum cryptography as part of a multi-year program. The National Center for Quantum Technologies will work with Pasqal to develop, test, and deploy quantum-safe cryptographic offerings tailored to the Saudi market using Pasqal's neutral-atom quantum processing technology and cloud services.
The agreement follows Pasqal's inauguration of Saudi Arabia's first quantum computer at Aramco's data center in Dhahran in May, alongside the launch of the Middle East's first commercial Quantum Computing-as-a-Service platform. Pasqal and Eleven Ventures had previously announced plans to establish a joint venture to expand quantum computing infrastructure across Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA region.
Dr. Talal Al-Sedairy, Senior Vice President for Research and Development at KACST, said the partnership reflects the organization's commitment to building strategic research collaborations with global technology leaders and strengthening national capabilities in quantum technologies. Dr. Wasiq Bokhari, CEO of Pasqal, highlighted that the initiative builds on Saudi Arabia's growing investment in quantum technologies and underscores Pasqal's commitment to the Kingdom.
The collaboration aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which prioritizes the development of a diversified, innovation-driven economy and the expansion of advanced technology sectors. The announcement coincides with Dr. Bokhari's scheduled keynote address at LEAP 2026 in Riyadh, where quantum computing and its applications in national development are expected to feature prominently.
