President Donald Trump will begin a four-day trip to the Middle East on May 13, 2025, visiting Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This marks his first major international trip since returning to office, and the primary goal is to strengthen economic ties and secure significant investments from these Gulf nations.
Trump will attend a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) summit in Saudi Arabia, where regional security and economic collaboration will be key topics of discussion. During the trip, the UAE is expected to pledge $1.4 trillion in investments over the next decade, while Saudi Arabia plans to commit $600 billion in the next four years. These funds will likely target areas such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and rare earth minerals.
The trip comes amid controversy regarding Trump’s agreement to accept a $400 million Boeing 747-8 from the Qatari royal family, which will temporarily serve as Air Force One. Although the White House defends the arrangement, critics argue that it may violate the Emoluments Clause of the U.S. Constitution.
Interestingly, Israel is absent from Trump’s itinerary, which has raised questions given ongoing tensions related to the Gaza conflict. Experts suggest that the omission may reflect strained relations with Israeli leaders and a shift in U.S. priorities in the region.
Trump’s Middle East visit underscores his focus on economic diplomacy and will likely shape his second term’s foreign policy.
