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Quantum computers can predict cyber threats, say IT experts

Dubai - It can train deep learning models in the field of artificial intelligence with less computational overhead.

Quantum computing can eventually aid in developing new drug discovery, like neurodegenerative diseases; in fuel cost optimisation by enhancing vehicle routing; and even predict cyber threats, IT experts told Khaleej Times.

It can train deep learning models in the field of artificial intelligence with less computational overhead, returns and risk optimisation of large financial portfolios and in the field of food and energy production. It can also provide better weather forecasting and climate change data, they said.

After the announcement that the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) Centre in Abu Dhabi will make the UAE’s first quantum computer, experts have said it marks an important milestone for the region.

TII, the dedicated ‘applied research’ pillar of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), on Tuesday, announced that its Quantum Research Centre (QRC) team led by its chief researcher, professor Jose Ignacio Latorre, will construct the quantum computer in collaboration with Barcelona-based Qilimanjaro Quantum Tech researchers.

Tufool Alnuaimi, PhD, a data scientist and co-founder at Jebra.io, said: “The difference between traditional computers and quantum computers is how information is stored. Traditional computers store information in bits: either a state of 0 or 1. Information storage in quantum computers aren't limited to the two states.”

She added: “What this means is that complex problems -- very complex problems -- can be solved much more efficiently by quantum computers. The difference is substantial and significant. Problems that would take hours, years and centuries (!) to solve using traditional computers could potentially be solved in minutes.”

Deepak Kumar Dash, founder, Dgtal.ai, pointed out: "TII building the UAE’s first quantum computer will be a major development with far-reaching impact. As the CPU of a traditional computer, QPU is the brain of a quantum computer.”

Quantum computers, he said, promise a huge leap in processing power. “In 2019, Google claimed they had achieved ‘quantum supremacy’ saying their quantum computers solved a problem in 200 seconds that would take the world’s fastest supercomputer 10,000 years.”

“Development and research on quantum computing are still in its early stages and there are fewer players in this field. Setting up focused research facilities and promoting education on quantum computing will have added value for any forward-looking country to become a front runner in this field,” the Abu Dhabi resident said. Quantum computing can be used in several sectors, including healthcare, finance, energy, security and space.

Peter French, general manager, MEA, at Acronis, a cyber protection company, said: “This will have a tremendous impact on cyber protection and probably help better anticipate cyber threats.”

“Quantum computing holds a promise in developing new drug discovery, fuel cost optimisation by optimising vehicle routing, training deep learning models in the field of artificial intelligence with less computational overhead, returns and risk optimisation of large financial portfolios and in the field of food and energy production, weather forecasting and climate change, solar energy and many more,” Dash added.

Alnuaimi said: “The implications of home-grown quantum computers are tremendous. It would spur a lot of innovation across many industries. The first industry that comes to mind is pharmaceuticals and drug discovery, but many industries will benefit. I imagine having local access to quantum computers in Abu Dhabi would attract new types of innovative businesses to the region.”

“The vision of the leaders of the UAE will guide the accomplishments from these machines that will help not just the country and region but the whole world. The simplest applications will allow the emirate to achieve its potential in terms of taking up large-scale projects. It will push Abu Dhabi even further on the global map as a city of the future,” underlined French.

Quantum computers will be able to efficiently simulate quantum systems, which could help us with inventions and innovations in the fields of medicine and technology.

“Its potential is probably infinite and limited only by our imagination and application. Right from the origins of our world to the cause and cure of cancer, everything might be possible with the use of quantum computers in the right hands with the right minds and right intent,” French said.

dhanusha@khaleejtimes.com

ashwani@khaleejtimes.com