Pasqal and KACST sign quantum research deal in Saudi Arabia

Pasqal (Nasdaq: PSQL) and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), through its National Center for Quantum Technologies, have signed a research collaboration agreement to advance quantum technology development and post-quantum cryptography in Saudi Arabia, according to a press release.

The agreement was announced during a ceremony at King Salman Science Oasis in Riyadh on World Quantum Day. Under the terms, Pasqal's neutral-atom quantum processing technology and cloud services will be combined with KACST's national research infrastructure to develop and validate quantum-safe cryptographic solutions.

Quantum cryptography will serve as the first focus area of a broader multi-year research program, with work to be carried out at KACST's National Center for Quantum Technologies. The parties aim to develop, test and package quantum-safe cryptographic solutions for the Saudi market.

Dr. Talal Al-Sedairy, Senior Vice President for R&D at KACST, said the agreement "reflects KACST's commitment to building strategic research partnerships with global technology leaders, supporting the development of national capabilities, and translating scientific research in quantum technologies into impactful future applications."

Pasqal CEO Dr. Wasiq Bokhari said the initiative "builds on Saudi Arabia's growing investment in quantum technologies and demonstrates Pasqal's continued deep engagement and commitment to the Kingdom regarding the development and utilization of quantum technologies."

The announcement follows several recent developments for Pasqal in Saudi Arabia. In May, the company and Aramco inaugurated what they described as Saudi Arabia's first quantum computer at Aramco's data center in Dhahran. Pasqal and Eleven Ventures also announced plans to establish a joint venture focused on deploying quantum computing systems across Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA region.

Dr. Bokhari delivered a keynote address at LEAP 2026 in Riyadh, where he discussed the transition of quantum computing toward industrial-scale applications.

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