In May 2025, President Donald Trump embarked on a four-day tour of the Middle East, visiting Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Qatar. The trip was marked by significant business agreements, diplomatic engagements, and discussions on regional conflicts.
š¬ Lavish Welcomes and Strategic Partnerships
In Saudi Arabia, Trump was received with grandeur by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The visit culminated in a "strategic economic partnership" agreement, including a $142 billion weapons sale and a pledge of $600 billion in Saudi investments in the U.S.
In the UAE, Trump announced a partnership allowing Abu Dhabi to import 500,000 U.S.-made Nvidia H100 AI chips annually. This deal includes the construction of a massive 10-square-mile, 5-gigawatt data center, signaling deepening tech ties between the nations.
šļø Diplomatic Initiatives and Regional Conflicts
Trump expressed optimism about resolving the Gaza crisis, stating that the Middle Eastern countries he visited would be involved in finding a solution alongside the U.S. He also confirmed that Iran had received a U.S. proposal concerning its nuclear program, though Iranian officials denied receiving any written proposal.
šļø Cultural Engagements and Symbolic Gestures
Trump visited the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi, a complex housing a mosque, church, and synagogue, symbolizing interfaith harmony. He also attended a state dinner in Saudi Arabia, where he was chauffeured by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, highlighting the personal rapport between the leaders.
President Trump's Middle East tour underscored his administration's focus on economic partnerships and strategic alliances in the region. While the trip yielded significant business deals and diplomatic engagements, it also highlighted ongoing regional challenges and the complexities of international diplomacy.