ABU DHABI: US President Donald Trump heads to UAE on Tuesday, marking the start of what is being described as a "historic visit" to the Middle East, his first international tour since beginning his second term in office.
According to the White House, the visit is primarily aimed at securing major foreign investments into the United States, with a particular focus on the technology and energy sectors.
The president's itinerary includes stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, with each country expected to make key economic announcements.
Dubai-based global affairs specialist Suzanne Kianpour described the trip as a reaffirmation of Trump’s image as a dealmaker.
“He is less concerned with traditional diplomatic sensitivities and more focused on agreements that deliver economic gains for both the US and GCC countries,” said Kianpour, who is also the founder and CEO of social impact platform Helmet to Heels.
Kianpour noted that recent developments, such as a proposed Damac investment in US data centers and a new Disney park in Abu Dhabi, underscore the mutual benefits being pursued. “For Trump, it’s the art of the deal,” she added.
In the UAE, Trump is expected to announce new memorandums of understanding and may approve waivers on sensitive AI technology exports part of a broader push to attract large-scale investment into the American tech sector.
Earlier this year, the UAE committed to a $1.4 trillion, 10-year investment in the US following talks between Trump and UAE National Security Advisor Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Trump’s visit also carries political significance. Suzanne Kianpour said the trip signals a “rebooting” of the relationships Trump cultivated during his first term.
“He’s confirming mega-investments and laying the groundwork for job creation back home,” she said.
In addition to economic deals, the visit includes diplomatic developments. Trump is reportedly celebrating a Qatari-mediated release of an Israeli-American hostage.
Ongoing discussions include Trump-branded resort projects, clean energy collaborations, Red Sea maritime security, and a potentially tougher stance on Iran.
The tour is expected to reinforce the United States’ strategic partnerships in the region while securing commitments that align with Trump’s economic and foreign policy priorities.
