Piloting the Quantum Economy Blueprint Lessons from Saudi Arabia 2026

Introduction The global economy stands at an inflection point where quantum technologies are fundamentally reshaping industrial competitiveness, national security and technological resilience. The strategic imperative for policy-makers has shifted decisively: the question is no longer whether quantum capabilities will prove consequential, but rather at what pace readiness should be cultivated and through which institutional mechanisms. The quantum economy emerges from three interdependent quantum technologies, each progressing along distinct maturity trajectories (Table 2).Quantum readiness requires early, coordinated action amid uncertainty to prevent a widening technological divide and enable inclusive pathways forward. Overview of quantum technologies TABLE 2 Technology Description Current maturity Quantum computingHarnesses quantum mechanics principles to solve problems that classical computers cannot solve efficiently, from molecular simulation enabling drug discovery and materials design to optimization, transforming logistics and financial modellingCurrently in the early stages of development, with limited quantum advantage demonstrated in specific use cases Quantum communicationsEnables secure transmission of quantum information and will ultimately support distributed quantum computing and networked quantum sensorsCurrently in pilot and demonstration phase, with quantum key distribution networks operational in limited regions Quantum sensingAchieves unprecedented precision in measuring time, gravity, magnetic fields and other physical properties, unlocking applications from GPS*-independent navigation to underground resource mapping and critical infrastructure monitoringThe most mature of the three technologies, with commercial applications already deployed in timing and navigation Note: *Global positioning system Source: World Economic Forum. (2025). Embracing the quantum economy: A pathway for business leaders; US Government Accountability Office. (2025). Science & tech spotlight: Quantum sensors. https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-25-107876. These quantum technologies share fundamental interdependencies. They rely on overlapping supply chains, draw from common talent pipelines and require complementary enabling infrastructure. Importantly, they do not exist in isolation from other emerging technologies. Quantum computing is already being integrated with classical supercomputers to augment computational capabilities.3 Quantum sensing enhances navigation and precision in autonomous systems, including in GPS-denied environments.4 Quantum communications secure digital infrastructure.5 Recognition of these interconnections is essential; fragmented quantum initiatives that treat each quantum technology in isolation lead to misaligned investments and missed opportunities for coordinated development across the quantum technologies.6 This convergence is forming a distinctive economic ecosystem that extends well beyond traditional quantum physics laboratories into manufacturing, energy, healthcare, finance and national security applications. Collectively, they are defining what is increasingly referred to as the quantum economy. The global quantum landscape Current estimates project that quantum computing could generate up to $1.3 trillion in economic value for four key industries (automotive, chemicals, financial services and life sciences) by 2035.7 Global public investment now exceeds $40 billion, with over 40 countries having launched quantum strategies since 2018 (Figure 1).8 Piloting the Quantum Economy Blueprint 5