On Friday, U.S. President Donald Trump concluded his Gulf tour in the UAE, following stops in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, where he announced multi-billion-dollar agreements, along with diplomatic engagement with Syria and optimism regarding a nuclear deal with Iran.

Major Economic & Diplomatic Developments

Trump’s first international trip in his second term included a record-breaking order for Boeing aircraft exceeding $200 billion, as well as the lifting of decades-long sanctions on Syria.

The warm reception of the U.S. president in the three Gulf countries emphasized the significance of his visit.

On Friday morning, Trump was set to attend a business and trade meeting before touring the Abrahamic Family House on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi, according to local media reports.

Trump's engagements in Saudi Arabia and Qatar

On Thursday, Trump held talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, following a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, known for its towering white columns and intricate golden decorations.

Multi-Trillion-Dollar Deals

During his stop in Doha, Trump praised what he described as a "record-breaking deal" for Qatar Airways, valued at $200 billion for Boeing aircraft.

He also hinted from Qatar at the possibility of a near agreement on Iran’s nuclear program, which would prevent military intervention.

However, he did not announce progress regarding the Gaza war, despite Qatar’s key role in mediating ceasefire negotiations. In a speech in Doha, Trump reiterated that the U.S. should "take" Gaza and turn it into a "zone of freedom."

Historic Meeting with Syrian President

For the first time in 25 years, Trump met Syrian President Ahmad Shar’a in Riyadh, where he announced the lifting of sanctions on war-torn Syria.

Trump stated that his Gulf tour resulted in securing "trillions of dollars" in agreements.

Artificial Intelligence Partnership

The UAE-based newspaper The National reported that the United States and the UAE are working toward announcing an AI and technology partnership during Trump’s visit.

The UAE aims to become a global leader in technology, particularly AI, to diversify its economy, which remains heavily dependent on oil.

However, these ambitions rely on access to advanced U.S. technologies, including AI chips that were previously subject to strict export controls.

Earlier this week, Trump’s administration revoked several restrictions imposed by Biden, which were set to take effect on May 15, limiting semiconductor exports for AI development—restrictions that primarily impacted China.