U.S. President approaches Riyadh for substantial investments amid regional financial challenges.
U.S. President
Donald Trump has secured a commitment for $600 billion in investments from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman shortly after his arrival in Riyadh.
This development, announced by the White House on May 13, 2025, marks a significant moment in U.S.-Saudi relations and has drawn attention amidst ongoing economic struggles for both nations.
The investment pact encompasses support for various sectors within the United States, including data centers and a bilateral defense agreement valued at $142 billion.
The scale of the investment from Saudi Arabia, while less than the $1 trillion initially sought by Trump, indicates a willingness from Riyadh to bolster financial ties even as it adjusts its internal budgetary plans due to a tightening economy.
As Trump embarks on a tour of the Middle East, which includes stops in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, the financial backing from Saudi Arabia aims to address the country’s decreasing public investment spending through its Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Nonetheless, Mohammed bin Salman noted that while the current investment falls short of the desired threshold set by Washington, efforts to increase the amount could continue.
Upon arrival in Riyadh, Trump was greeted with a ceremonial welcome that included a flight escort by Saudi F-15 fighter jets.
His reception underscores the significance of Saudi Arabia's role as a major player within the OPEC+ group, although the kingdom's financial position has considerably weakened in recent years.
Increased production limits led by OPEC+ have contributed to lower oil prices globally, affecting Saudi Arabia's revenue from oil sales, which is central to its economy.
In addition to the funding announcements, discussions during Trump’s visit have included proposals such as the potential gifting of a new aircraft from Doha to replace the existing Air Force One, a gesture that Trump clarified would not entail any concessions from the U.S.
This trip marks Trump’s first major international undertaking during his second presidential term, and it comes amid a backdrop of shifting dynamics in global oil markets and internal pressures within Saudi Arabia as it seeks to balance economic diversification against the backdrop of fluctuating oil revenues.