Doha, May 14, 2025 — Former U.S. President Donald Trump arrived in Qatar on Tuesday as part of his broader Middle East tour, following high-profile engagements in Saudi Arabia. The visit marked a major step in bolstering Qatari-American relations, with both nations signing economic and defense agreements valued at $243.5 billion.
Key deals include Qatar Airways’ significant order of Boeing aircraft, defense procurement agreements, and joint ventures in natural gas and quantum technologies. The two countries also signed a statement of intent outlining more than $38 billion in future investments. These include enhanced cooperation at Al Udeid Air Base and advancements in maritime security and air defense systems.
A highlight of the visit was Qatar’s offer to donate a Boeing 747-8 aircraft to the U.S. government. The luxury jet, worth approximately $400 million, is set to serve as an interim Air Force One while the official replacement is under development. Trump described the donation as a cost-saving gesture for American taxpayers, emphasizing that the gift was for the United States, not for personal use.
While the donation sparked debate among U.S. officials over transparency and security concerns, Trump defended the decision, calling it “a smart move” that should not be politicized.
Trump’s visit to Qatar followed a historic meeting in Riyadh with Syria’s interim president and formed part of a wider strategy to deepen ties with Gulf nations. In Doha, Trump met with His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and other senior Qatari officials. Discussions focused on economic partnerships, regional stability, and Qatar’s vital role as a long-standing U.S. ally in the region.
The visit concluded with formal state engagements and private meetings aimed at fostering mutual investment and long-term cooperation between the two nations.
