Donald Trump is set to visit three of the wealthiest Gulf states next week, with the aim of enhancing their influence over him, according to CNN. These states—Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE—have cultivated personal connections with the president and promised trillions in investments in the U.S. They position themselves as key intermediaries in the conflicts Trump seeks to address, such as in Gaza, Ukraine, and Iran.
Trump’s visit to these countries will be his first official state visit during his second term. The trip will begin with a stop in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, followed by visits to Qatar and the UAE until May 16.
Key Insights:
- Strategic Transactional Approach: Trump’s transactional foreign policy fits well with the Gulf states’ ambitions. They offer massive investments in the U.S. economy and will spend significantly on American weapon systems.
- Strengthening US-Gulf Ties: Relations between the U.S. and the Gulf states have improved since Trump returned to office. Frustrated by the perceived lack of U.S. attention to their needs under Joe Biden’s administration, the Gulf states are eager to diversify their military, technological, and economic relationships.
- Strategic Opportunities for the Gulf States: The Gulf states view this visit as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to strengthen their partnerships with the U.S. and secure greater benefits from the world’s most powerful nation.
- Focused Priorities: Each of the three countries Trump is visiting has its own set of priorities, with a focus on expanding their military, economic, and technological influence through stronger ties with the U.S.
