Trump Announces Over $200 Billion in U.S.-UAE deals amid Middle East tour

During a multi-day trip to the Middle East, U.S. President Donald Trump, on Thursday, May 15, 2025,  unveiled business agreements exceeding $200 billion between the United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The agreement highlighted efforts to deepen bilateral relations.

A key component of these deals includes a $14.5 billion commitment involving Boeing, GE Aerospace, and Etihad Airways.

According to a statement from the White House on Thursday, the agreement includes Etihad Airways’ pledge to purchase 28 American-made aircraft from Boeing.

It specifically listed the 787 Dreamliner and the next-generation 777X, all powered by engines manufactured by GE Aerospace.

The White House emphasized that this investment would further solidify the long-standing aviation partnership between the two nations.

Accordingly, it would significantly support American manufacturing and also increase U.S. exports.

Etihad’s investment aligns with the airline’s expansion goals and broader national objectives.

CEO Antonoaldo Neves stated last month that the Abu Dhabi-based airline aims to expand its current fleet of approximately 100 aircraft by adding 20 to 22 planes in 2024.

The airline plans to grow its fleet to more than 170 aircraft by 2030, supporting the UAE’s broader economic diversification strategy.

Etihad, owned by ADQ, Abu Dhabi’s $225 billion sovereign wealth fund, has reportedly undergone significant restructuring in recent years.

This includes management changes.

Under Neves’ leadership, the airline has not only stabilized but has also embarked on an aggressive expansion.

The fleet additions this year include 10 Airbus A321LRs, which were officially launched on Monday and are scheduled to begin operations in August.

The remaining new aircraft acquisitions comprise six Airbus A350s and four Boeing 787s.

The announcement of the Etihad deal comes just one day after Boeing revealed it had secured its largest-ever order for wide-body aircraft.

The agreement with Qatar is reportedly valued at $96 billion.

That deal further underscores the increasing demand for American-made aerospace products in the Gulf region and the strategic importance of U.S. manufacturing in global aviation.

Trump’s trip has been heavily focused on solidifying economic and political ties in the region, with the UAE playing a central role.

This is due to its investment ambitions, trade influence, and geopolitical alignment with the U.S.

The multi-billion-dollar business agreements serve as a cornerstone of this engagement, particularly in high-stakes industries like aviation and technology.

However, controversy has followed Trump throughout the trip.

Earlier in the week, he announced that he intends to accept a $400 million luxury jumbo jet gifted by the government of Qatar.

The jet is reportedly being considered as the future Air Force One before eventually being transferred to Trump’s presidential library.

The announcement sparked widespread ethical concerns, with critics pointing to potential conflicts of interest.

They also raised questions about the appropriateness of accepting such an extravagant gift from a foreign government.

Despite the backlash, Trump defended the move during a public appearance on Wednesday, insisting that the aircraft symbolizes American excellence.

“We’re the United States of America. I believe we should have the most impressive plane,” he said, justifying his decision to move forward with accepting the aircraft.

Trump’s bold stance and his administration’s embrace of large-scale international deals mark a continuation of his focus on using economic diplomacy to reinforce U.S. interests abroad.

His supporters argue that these deals demonstrate the president’s ability to leverage personal relationships and business acumen for national benefit, particularly in high-value sectors like aerospace.

Meanwhile, the Etihad deal illustrates the UAE’s intent to boost its aviation footprint while strengthening trade relations with the U.S.

By integrating more Boeing and GE products into its fleet, the Gulf state is not only enhancing its national airline but also making a strategic investment in American technology and infrastructure.

In summary, the over $200 billion in U.S.-UAE deals announced during Trump’s visit represents a major milestone in bilateral economic relations.

Overshadowed by ethical controversies surrounding Trump’s acceptance of a Qatari jet.

On the other hand, the business agreements, especially in aviation, highlight both nations’ commitment to expanding cooperation in key industrial sectors.

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