In his first major diplomatic trip of his second term, President Donald Trump aims to secure investment, trade, and technology deals from Gulf allies amid ongoing regional conflicts, including Israel’s war in Gaza.
In Saudi Arabia, he aims to secure a $1 trillion investment in the U.S., building on the $600 billion already pledged by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman over the next four years. Trump is also expected to offer a $100 billion arms package to the kingdom.
In Qatar, Trump will meet with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to discuss regional security. At the same time, he plans to engage with President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates on boosting investment in energy, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and manufacturing. The UAE has already announced a $1.4 trillion investment plan for these sectors in the U.S. over the next decade.
Amid these high-stakes talks, controversy is brewing over reports that Qatar’s royal family may gift Trump a luxury Boeing 747-8 aircraft to replace Air Force One, a gesture that raises significant legal and ethical questions.
