Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) has launched Qatar’s first national quantum computing laboratory through its College of Science and Engineering (CSE) and the Qatar Center for Quantum Computing (QC2). The initiative is supported by a $10 million research grant from the Ministry of Defence (MOD), marking a strategic investment in sovereign quantum capabilities.
Led by Dr. Saif Al-Kuwari, Associate Professor at HBKU and Director of QC2, the lab will focus on research in quantum software, algorithms, error correction, cryptography, and benchmarking of hardware platforms. The launch reflects HBKU’s aim to develop indigenous quantum expertise and support real-world adoption of quantum technologies in key national sectors such as energy, cybersecurity, transportation, and logistics.
The announcement was made during a formal launch event attended by senior HBKU leadership and MOD representatives. The new lab forms part of QC2’s broader mission to position Qatar as a quantum-ready nation by enabling applied research and cultivating talent in emerging quantum fields.
For more information, see the announcement post by Dr. Saif Al-Kuwari here, and a summary from Quantum.Tech here.
May 22, 2025
