11 Keynotes and High-Level Panel Session Mark QSTSD 2025, as Global Leaders Explore Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, and Quantum Sensing
Khalifa University of Science and Technology inaugurated the GCC region’s first International Conference on Quantum Science and Technology for Sustainable Development (), underscoring its commitment to advancing quantum research and education.
The two-day , organized in partnership with UNESCO and the American Physical Society (APS), and in collaboration with New York University Abu Dhabi, gathers leading global scientists, technologists, policymakers, and industry innovators to explore how quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing can contribute to sustainable development. The event brings together a dynamic program of 11 keynote presentations and a dedicated panel session, offering expert perspectives on the rapidly evolving quantum landscape and its transformative potential.
program spans the full spectrum of quantum science and technology, offering insights into quantum computing, advanced hardware architectures, quantum communications, and emerging scientific and industrial applications. Speakers from leading institutions and companies include D-Wave, IBM Quantum, Kipu Quantum, Algorithmiq, Rigetti, the Technology Innovation Institute (TII), ADIA Lab – an independent, Abu Dhabi-based laboratory dedicated to basic and applied research in data and computational sciences, the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), and top global universities such as the University of Southampton, the University of Manchester, the University of Naples, and University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), China. Experts highlighted how quantum systems are progressing from theoretical constructs to practical tools capable of addressing complex challenges across sustainability, materials, chemistry, secure communications, and national technology development.
Several talks focused on advancing quantum computing and hardware innovation, including energy-efficient approaches to solving computationally hard problems, scalable superconducting chiplet-based processor designs, fault-tolerance roadmaps, and national strategies for building sovereign quantum capability. Complementing these were sessions on applied quantum technologies, such as quantum chemistry, quantum advantage in industrial and academic settings, and the transition of laboratory breakthroughs into real-world impact. Collectively, these contributions showcased the rapid maturation of quantum systems and their emerging role in global innovation ecosystems.
The program also included a high-level panel session, ‘UAE Perspective: Quantum Technology Impact and Opportunities’, featuring experts discussing the country’s strategic direction for quantum research and development, talent development, and innovation capacity. Together, the keynotes and panel provided a comprehensive view of the global quantum landscape, blending scientific depth, technological opportunity, and national-level strategy, while reinforcing the conference’s purpose of accelerating collaboration and responsible innovation for sustainable development.
In addition to the main conference, the event is preceded by the Quantum Winter School 2025 (QWS 2025), a preparatory program designed to build foundational knowledge among students, researchers, and early-career professionals. Through advanced tutorials and lectures in quantum communication, quantum sensing and simulation, and quantum computing, QWS 2025 fosters cross-disciplinary learning and equips participants with the skills needed to engage deeply with the themes of QSTSD 2025.
The conference ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ how quantum technologies can drive innovation across ICT infrastructure, fintech, healthcare, energy, and environmental monitoring. It also aims to strengthen collaboration among scientists, engineers, policymakers, and industry leaders while fostering talent development and early-career engagement in quantum fields.For researchers, students, government officials, technology executives, NGOs, and international organizations, QSTSD 2025 serves as a platform to exchange knowledge and explore the role of quantum science, engineering, and sustainability.
Clarence Michael
English Editor – SpecialistÂ
