U.S. President Donald Trump kicked off his second-term international agenda with a grand reception in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, emphasizing business deals over diplomatic breakthroughs. Greeted with full military honors by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Trump’s visit marks the start of a Gulf tour that will include Qatar and the UAE.
Trump will headline a major investment forum in Riyadh alongside U.S. business leaders, including adviser Elon Musk. Saudi Arabia has pledged $600 billion in trade and investment deals with the U.S., a figure Trump aims to raise to $1 trillion. Talks are also underway for arms deals, including F-35 fighter jets and advanced air defense systems, with deliveries tied to Trump’s current term.
Analysts note that the visit is designed to secure major economic partnerships rather than engage deeply with regional crises. While tensions remain over the Gaza conflict and U.S.-Iran relations, Trump’s agenda focuses on strengthening ties with Gulf allies, who he sees as generous partners and key players in his deal-driven foreign policy.
Controversy has also emerged as Trump confirmed plans to accept a luxury Boeing jet from the Qatari royal family as the next Air Force One, calling it a transparent transaction.
The trip mirrors Trump’s 2017 Gulf visit, reinforcing his preference for symbolic diplomacy and high-value deals over traditional conflict mediation.
