Former President Donald Trump just launched a four-day tour of the region to do exactly the opposite. His trip includes stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. What this trip really represents is a sea change in the geopolitical order toward a more personalized geopolitics. Today, social ties between leaders are determinant in international relations. As Trump received extravagant welcomes and sealed multi-billion dollar agreements, the visit underscored the importance of personal connections in fostering diplomatic ties.
During his visit to Saudi Arabia, Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman exchanged praises at the U.S.-Saudi Investment Summit, reflecting their strengthened relationship. In a notable departure from royal protocol, bin Salman personally greeted Trump on the tarmac upon his arrival in Riyadh. The two leaders subsequently announced plans for significant investments. Saudi Arabia committing $600 billion in investments within the United States.
The United Arab Emirates deepened their ties to the U.S. by announcing a $1.4 trillion, 10-year investment plan. This framework is intended to strengthen economic cooperation between our two countries. Though Qatar has faced international isolation, the U.S.-Qatar relationship has been fortified. They did so through a groundbreaking $1.2 trillion “economic exchange,” the largest step forward in their bilateral relations in decades.
In Abu Dhabi, UAE leader Mohammed bin Zayed bestowed on Trump the highest Emirati honor, the Order of Zayed Award. This prestigious accolade is the nation’s highest civil award. The celebrations carried over to Qatar as well, where Trump’s motorcade was reportedly led by a phalanx of Qataris on horseback and bright red Tesla cybertrucks. A procession of royal camels in ceremonial garb welcomed him outside the Amiri Diwan, Qatar’s presidential office.
Trump expressed his appreciation for the royal camels during his visit, stating, “This is what they call perfecto. We appreciate those camels.” He further noted, “I haven’t seen camels like that in a long time. Really, we appreciate it very much.”
The significance of Trump’s visit cannot be overstated. It marks the first time an American president has visited the UAE since George W. Bush’s trip in 2008. The irony of this farewell visit is that it represents a renewed commitment to strengthening regional ties.
According to Taufiq Rahim, an expert on Middle Eastern geopolitics, “Trump’s trip to the Gulf reflects the increasing personalization of geopolitics.” He focused on the way friendships can influence global relationships beyond the scope of typical statecraft.
While Trump was in country, Qatar made waves with an order for 210 Boeing aircraft. This large purchase captured headlines for the growing economic relationship between the two countries. In an ongoing U.S.-UAE bilateral dialogue, U.S. negotiators helped inspire a promising development. They even struck an initial deal for the UAE to start importing 500,000 Nvidia H100 chips annually. These cutting-edge chips serve as proud reminders of American ingenuity. Beyond that, they’re a sign of an important strategic partnership aimed at raising the Gulf’s technological capabilities.
Tarik Solomon, another analyst, remarked on the theatrical nature of such visits: “Sure, a lot of it is theater. In this region, signaling ambition is half the game. Even if only 50% sticks, it’s still an impactful play.” He continued to underscore that Trump’s strongman persona is a perfect match for Gulf leaders’ desires for business-first presidents.
“The Gulf has always gotten along better with business-first presidents, and President Trump fits that mold perfectly,” Solomon added. He remains a key figurehead of quick cash, lucrative military deals, and access to the American technology and talent pool. So, if cozying up to him helps secure a seat at the table of the next world order, the Gulf is bringing the gold-plated chair.
As Trump’s visit plays out, it is clear that personal diplomacy and personal politics are moving to the center stage in Gulf politics. The royal receptions and huge economic pledges are an indication of the depth of appreciation for stability and mutual benefit that runs between these countries.