Trump Launches Gulf Tour with Opulent Reception in Riyadh

President Trump received a grand welcome in Saudi Arabia, marking the beginning of his Gulf tour. Accompanied by top business leaders and administration officials, he aims to finalize deals surpassing $1 trillion, focusing on sectors such as technology and arms sales.

President Trump was treated to a lavish welcome in Riyadh on Tuesday as he embarked on a four-day tour of the Gulf, representing his first significant international trip during his second term. The visit included an honor guard and a gathering of Saudi royals and leading business figures, reflecting the president's strong connections with the kingdom.

Stepping off Air Force One at the Royal Terminal of King Khalid International Airport, Mr. Trump was warmly greeted by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The two leaders convened in an opulent setting adorned with marble columns and navy-and-gold armchairs. Key administration figures, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, accompanied him, alongside major U.S. business personalities such as Elon Musk and chief executives from firms like IBM and BlackRock.

This tour, which encompasses visits to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, primarily aims at crafting business deals exceeding $1 trillion, with interests spanning artificial intelligence, energy production, and substantial arms purchases from U.S. defense contractors. The presence of Crown Prince Mohammed indicated the favorable rapport Mr. Trump has developed with Saudi leaders, contrasting with the less cordial reception received by President Biden during his 2022 visit.

Additionally, Mr. Trump’s ties to the trip have been notably beneficial for his family, which is exploring deals with a majority-Saudi real estate company, a cryptocurrency project linked with UAE interests, and a luxury project in Qatar. Reports indicate that the Trump administration may also receive a donation of a luxury Boeing 747-8 from Qatar’s royal family, a move prompting critique and scrutiny from figures like Senator Chuck Schumer, who plans to delay Justice Department confirmations pending inquiry into this transaction.

As the Gulf tour unfolds, Mr. Trump has expressed a willingness to partake in potential peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, adding another layer of complexity to his foreign engagements. His meetings are expected to consolidate economic ties while addressing pressing geopolitical issues pertinent to Europe and the Middle East.