Abu Dhabi, UAE – May 16, 2025 – President Donald Trump wrapped up his four-day Middle East tour on Friday, leaving a trail of headlines as he visited Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. The trip, his first major overseas journey since taking office for his second term, focused on strengthening ties with Gulf nations, securing business deals, and addressing regional challenges.
Saudi Arabia: Bold Moves and Shifting Alliances
In Saudi Arabia, Trump met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and announced $600 billion in agreements with Saudi companies. However, some reports noted that the actual value of new deals was closer to half that amount, with several agreements already in progress before the visit.
He also met Syria’s interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, in Riyadh—a surprising move that signaled a shift in U.S. policy toward Syria. Trump confirmed plans to lift long-standing sanctions on Syria, aiming to support the country’s transition after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
Qatar: Business Deals and Candid Comments
In Qatar, Trump attended a signing ceremony where Qatar Airways agreed to buy up to 210 Boeing jets. He described the deal as worth over $100 billion, though White House estimates were lower.
The visit included a state dinner hosted by Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, where Trump praised the region’s hospitality and even commented on the camels in the honor guard, saying, “I haven’t seen camels like that in a long time.”
He also hinted at progress in talks with Iran over its nuclear program, stating, “We’re getting very close,” while warning of consequences if no deal is reached.
UAE: Honors, Investments, and Interfaith Symbols
The final stop in the UAE saw Trump tour the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, his first visit to a mosque as president. He was joined by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and received the Order of Zayed, the country’s highest civilian honor.
At a business breakfast, Trump announced $200 billion in deals, including a UAE commitment to invest $1.4 trillion in the U.S. artificial intelligence sector over the next decade. He also visited the Abrahamic Family House, a site symbolizing interfaith cooperation, tied to the Abraham Accords he helped broker during his first term.
Controversy and Criticism
The tour wasn’t without controversy. Trump’s decision to skip Israel, a key U.S. ally, raised eyebrows, especially as Israeli strikes in Gaza continued, killing dozens during the week. Some analysts suggested Trump was distancing himself from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with posts on X claiming he was “fed up” with Netanyahu’s approach to regional deals.
Ethical concerns also surfaced over Trump’s family business interests in the region, with critics questioning whether his decisions prioritized U.S. interests or personal ventures.
Legacy and Impact
Despite the criticism, Trump’s trip was marked by lavish receptions and a focus on economic partnerships. He brought along over 30 American CEOs, including leaders from IBM, Amazon, and Tesla, to meet Gulf investors.
In a speech in Riyadh, he shared an optimistic vision for the region, saying, “The Middle East can be defined by commerce, not chaos.” He also emphasized his willingness to move past old conflicts, stating, “I have never believed in having permanent enemies.”
As Trump boarded Air Force One to return to Washington, the trip left a mixed legacy. Supporters praised his deal-making and bold diplomacy, while critics argued he sidelined pressing issues like the Gaza conflict. The outcomes of his initiatives—from Syria’s future to Iran’s nuclear talks—will likely shape U.S. influence in the region for years to come.