The SDAIA Academy has opened registration for a five-day quantum computing boot camp aimed at building national capabilities in one of the most advanced and complex computing fields. The program will run from Jan. 11 to 15, offering five hours of daily training, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Organised by the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) in collaboration with King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), the boot camp targets professionals and specialists in computer science and related disciplines. It is designed to provide participants with a foundational understanding of quantum computing and its potential applications, as Saudi Arabia accelerates investment in advanced and emerging technologies in line with Vision 2030.
Quantum computing differs fundamentally from classical computing by relying on principles of quantum mechanics rather than binary logic. Although still an emerging field, it is widely expected to transform areas such as cybersecurity, optimisation, advanced simulation, and data-intensive research.
The boot camp will introduce participants to the physical and mathematical principles underpinning quantum computing, including qubits, quantum superposition, and entanglement. It will also explore how quantum systems differ from traditional computing architectures and where quantum approaches may offer practical advantages.
In addition to theoretical instruction, the program places strong emphasis on applied learning. Participants will gain hands-on experience designing and running quantum algorithms using industry-recognised tools and platforms such as Qiskit and CUDA-Q, which are currently used in global research and early-stage development environments.
SDAIA said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to prepare Saudi talent for advanced computing fields. Ahmed Alghamdi, CEO of the Capacity Building Sector at SDAIA, said the boot camp represents a key step in building national readiness for quantum technologies by combining rigorous theory with practical training aligned with Vision 2030.
Organisers noted that the practical focus aims to equip participants to engage with real-world quantum computing workflows, rather than limiting training to conceptual understanding. The collaboration with KFUPM reflects a wider push to link national digital initiatives with academic and research expertise.
SDAIA has increasingly prioritised capability-building programs in artificial intelligence, advanced analytics, and emerging technologies to strengthen local innovation ecosystems and reduce reliance on external expertise. Officials said quantum computing skills, while still niche, are expected to become strategically important in the coming decade.
Registration for the boot camp is open until Jan. 6 via SDAIA’s official training platform.
