The Trump Organization has announced an ambitious expansion in Saudi Arabia, unveiling several lucrative real estate projects in December. This includes plans for a Trump Tower in Riyadh and a $530 million residential tower in Jeddah. These ventures highlight the organization's deepening ties with Saudi Arabia, a nation that has become a vital source of new deals and growth during Donald Trump's years out of political office.
The Trump Organization stands to earn millions in licensing and management fees from these projects, potentially spanning up to 30 years. These deals underscore the continued profitability of the Trump brand, even as it navigates complex international relations and potential conflicts of interest. The organization's ties to Saudi Arabia have been a consistent thread throughout Trump's first term, raising questions about the intersection of business and politics.
During Trump's presidency, Saudi Arabia emerged as a significant player in the Trump brand's global expansion. Saudi government lobbyists spent over $270,000 on accommodations at the Trump International Hotel in Washington, D.C., highlighting the financial interconnections between the two parties. In addition, the Trump administration played a pivotal role in supporting Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during tumultuous times, including the international uproar following the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
There are allegations that Prince Mohammed was banking on a second Trump term, rewarding the former president for his unwavering support. Trump himself boasted to journalist Bob Woodward about his efforts to shield Prince Mohammed from Congressional backlash.
"I was able to get Congress to leave him alone, I was able to get them to stop," said Donald Trump.
In a move that further illustrates the blending of politics and business, Trump sought to mediate an agreement between the PGA Tour and the Saudi-funded LIV Golf league. This alliance brought Trump's properties back into the limelight of professional golf tournaments, generating significant revenue streams for the Trump family business.
The aftermath of Trump's presidency also saw continued Saudi support for his inner circle. Following the Capitol insurrection, Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and senior adviser, received crucial backing from Saudi officials. Kushner's firm, Affinity Partners, secured a substantial $2 billion investment from Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund just six months after his White House tenure concluded.
Meanwhile, controversy surrounded Trump's handling of an intelligence report concerning Prince Mohammed's alleged involvement in Khashoggi's murder. Despite findings implicating the crown prince, Trump refrained from releasing the report, further intensifying scrutiny of his relationship with Saudi Arabia.
In November 2022, the Trump Organization finalized a deal with Dar Al Arkan and the Omani government for participation in a multibillion-dollar real estate development in Oman. This expansion further extends Trump's influence in the Middle East and underscores the enduring appeal of his brand in the region.
These developments raise critical questions about the implications of Trump's business dealings with foreign governments. As the Trump Organization reaps financial benefits from its engagements with Saudi Arabia, concerns about potential conflicts of interest and their impact on U.S. foreign policy persist.