Riyadh: The Quantum Forum 2026 concluded on Sunday, organised by C4IR Saudi Arabia, part of the World Economic Forum's global network, in partnership with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), King Salman Science Oasis (KSSO), and the Institute for Advanced Studies and Cooperation (IASC), under the theme 'Shaping the Quantum Workforce', at KSSO headquarters in Riyadh.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the forum was attended by President of KACST and Acting Governor of the Research, Development and Innovation Authority Dr. Munir bin Mahmoud Eldesouki, General Supervisor of KSSO Dr. Khalid bin Abdulqader Taher, as well as experts and specialists representing government entities, academia, industry, and investment. It focused on developing the workforce and capabilities and building partnerships that strengthen the Kingdom's readiness for the emerging quantum economy.
In his opening keynote, Chairman of the Board of C4IR Saudi Arabia Dr. Talal AlSedairy emphasized the importance of early investment in people, capabilities, and partnerships. He stated that World Quantum Day in the Kingdom has transformed from just an occasion to introduce quantum technology into a platform for dialogue on building a quantum economy. This year, the focus was on placing people at the center of this dialogue, recognizing that talent, capabilities, and partnerships are foundational to the quantum future, and their maturity and readiness must begin today.
Acting Managing Director of C4IR Saudi Arabia Amal Alshareef highlighted the importance of translating discussions into practical steps, building on the partnerships and momentum achieved through the Quantum Economy project to strengthen readiness and the practical adoption of quantum technologies.
The forum also featured KACST's announcement of strategic partnerships with Pasqal and Imperial College London to support quantum research and develop national talent. Additionally, KACST launched the "Quantathon" hackathon in partnership with Pasqal, aiming to attract innovators to develop quantum algorithms and solutions for real-world challenges using quantum computing platforms.
Panel discussions at the forum explored the practical adoption of quantum technologies, the transition from awareness to institutional readiness, and the development of specialized skills and talent. They also addressed support for research and innovation, investment stimulation, enabling infrastructure development, and effective cross-sector partnerships, while showcasing emerging applications and developments in the global landscape of quantum technologies.
The Saudi Quantum Computing Association presented its 'Quantum Computing Dictionary' initiative, inviting specialists to contribute to and enrich specialized Arabic content.
The forum signifies a significant milestone in C4IR Saudi Arabia's efforts to enhance Saudi Arabia's knowledge and technology ecosystem, support its strategic direction towards leadership in quantum technologies, and reinforce its position as an international innovation hub. The event concluded the second track of C4IR Saudi Arabia's World Quantum Day 2026 program, following the 'Quantum Journey' exhibition held last April, building on three years of efforts to raise awareness and engagement within the Kingdom's knowledge and technology ecosystem.
