Quantum Computing and Artificial Intelligence are two of the most transformative technologies of our time. When combined, they have the potential to redefine the way we process information, secure data, and solve complex problems. In Oman, these technologies are being linked to the strategic ambitions of Oman Vision 2040, with the National Programme for Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Digital Technologies (2024-2026) identifying quantum computing as a priority area.
To explore this further, we spoke with Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Asif, Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering. In this dialogue, our guest discusses the foundations of Quantum AI, its key applications, the opportunities and challenges for Oman, and his vision for preparing the next generation of researchers and innovators.
To begin, what inspired your interest in the intersection of Quantum Computing and AI?
You started with an interesting question. Actually, the time-constraint requirement of AI looks for any technology, other than classical computers, that can offer faster computation, especially in training large-scale models. On the other hand, quantum computing, in principle, can process tasks exponentially faster, leading to a natural marriage between the two technologies. Moreover, better optimisation is promised by quantum computing, which is central to AI.
You describe Quantum AI as a revolutionary technology. Could you explain, in simple terms, how it differs from traditional AI and computing?
Quantum AI is a revolutionary technology because it aims to solve many problems that are currently considered impossible to solve using a classical approach. Examples are optimisation/search problems at an exponentially faster speed, the ability to handle high-dimensional or complex data, predicting climate with unmatched accuracy, and practically unbreakable security. It differs from classical computing even in the basic unit; that is, classical computing uses bits for all of its operations, which can take on two states (‘0’ or ‘1’). On the contrary, quantum computing uses a qubit, which is a superposition of ‘0’ and ‘1’ and can theoretically take on an infinite number of states. Moreover, contrary to following instructions sequentially in classical computing, the instructions can be executed in parallel in quantum computing. Unlike traditional AI, which takes only one parameter at a time for optimisation, quantum AI can take, in principle, all parameters simultaneously, thus drastically reducing training time from weeks to minutes or even seconds.
Can you elaborate on what makes Quantum AI so powerful?
The key properties of Quantum AI, such as parallel thinking, entanglement, or linked knowledge, combining security plus intelligence, etc., make it so powerful that it can readily be used for applications such as materials science and drug discovery, cybersecurity, optimisation problems, and many more.
Cybersecurity and cryptanalysis are among the key applications. Which of these areas do you see as most immediately impacted by Quantum AI?
That is a fascinating question, indeed. Cybersecurity primarily deals with the defence side, while the attack side comes under cryptanalysis. Based on the timeline, I think the role of quantum computing will be there in about 5–10 years, though many banks have already started adopting quantum-based security measures. The breaking of cryptography, for analysis purposes, is expected to be adopted within 10–20 years.
Portfolio management and generative modelling are more industry-focused applications. How soon can businesses and researchers in Oman expect to see practical uses of these?
It is perhaps the most important question; however, there is no simple answer to that. All I can say at the moment is that Oman will likely follow the global timeline in general, with the GCC or local trajectory in particular. Having said that, some companies and research groups foresee the use of this technology starting, at least in finance and materials science, in about 5 years from now. For more transformative applications, we may have to wait for another 10 years or so.
You connected your analysis to Oman Vision 2040. How does Quantum AI align with the Oman Vision 2040 for digital transformation and economic diversification?
In alignment with Oman Vision 2040, the Sultanate has introduced the National Programme for Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Digital Technologies (2024-2026). Quantum Computing, under the umbrella of Advanced Digital Technologies, is intended to be included as both a key area of focus and a fundamental building block of Information and Communications Technology. The strategic objectives of this programme are to enhance AI adoption in economic and developmental sectors, establish robust governance frameworks, and localise AI technologies, including quantum computing.
The National Programme for Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Digital Technologies (2024–2026) includes quantum computing as a priority. What role can SQU play in advancing this agenda?
SQU can play its role in many ways. It can update its curriculum and introduce elective courses in the field of quantum technology, especially in related departments. Similarly, relevant short courses, workshops, and seminars could be another aspect of its contribution. A dedicated research fund may be allocated to related pilot projects. SQU should also engage with esteemed international and regional institutions that are already established in this regard.
Quantum AI is still in its early stages globally. What challenges (technical, financial, or educational) must Oman overcome to become a leading country in this field?
That should be the question of the session, I must say. There are myriad challenges Oman should look into in order to be amongst the leading nations in this field. First and foremost is the technical challenge. Currently, there is no quantum hardware equipment or laboratory established in Oman where researchers can validate their theoretical or research results. Similarly, there is no licence at any Omani higher educational institute for cloud access to quantum processors (e.g., IBM), which is pivotal for validating simulation results. Besides, there are two-fold financial challenges: quantum hardware is costly, and financing is required for human capital, as there are very few experts in Oman in this field. Last but not least, there are strategic challenges, which means Oman should adapt its policy to the global trend and should take steps for international collaboration in this regard.
You recently participated in the AI & Quantum Computing Forum at the COMEX Summit 2025. What were your key takeaways from that experience?
The key takeaways, if I could summarise, were (1) high time to invest in spreading awareness about quantum technology, (2) quantum technology will be commercially available in about 10 years from now, (3) there is a dire need to introduce programmes/courses into higher educational institutions, and the government should allocate dedicated research funds in this regard.
Finally, as an educator, what advice would you give to students and young researchers who want to contribute to Oman’s journey in Quantum AI?
That is an excellent perspective that you brought about. Above all, the students should build strong foundations in Mathematics, Quantum Physics, and Computer Science. Afterwards, they should strive to gain hands-on experience with a quantum platform by using available platforms such as Qiskit, Cirq, and PennyLane. At the same time, students need to focus on Oman-related applications, such as finance, climate/water, oil/energy, and gas, from Quantum tools perspectives, including optimisation, superposition, and entanglement. They should learn to be interdisciplinary if they really want to contribute to this field.