Saudi Arabia lays groundwork for quantum-enabled economy

RIYADH: The shift from scientific potential to economic readiness was central to the Quantum Forum 2026 in Riyadh, where researchers, government officials and technology leaders discussed the global quantum economy and how Saudi Arabia is defining its role in this rapidly evolving field, on Sunday, Aug 30. The Kingdom’s immediate focus is on developing the researchers, infrastructure, partnerships, policies, and commercial environment necessary to support the practical adoption of quantum technologies as the field matures. For Saudi Arabia, early engagement is not limited to future access to quantum computers. The broader objective is to cultivate talent, develop relevant applications, and secure a position within the international quantum value chain. That wider context ran through the Quantum Forum, held at King Salman Science Oasis under the theme “Shaping the Quantum Workforce.” The event, organised by the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Saudi Arabia in strategic partnership with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, King Salman Science Oasis and…