In brief
During a grand welcome ceremony, Trump enjoyed royal treatment and displayed camaraderie with Saudi leadership while promoting diplomatic and business alliances.
On Tuesday, May 13, 2025, President Donald Trump arrived in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, greeted by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman amid a spectacle that mirrored the opulence of his Mar-a-Lago estate. The red carpet was replaced with a striking lavender one as Trump was welcomed by an honor guard and the crown prince, marking the first day of his four-day Middle East visit.Over 7,400 miles away from his Florida residence, Trump appeared at ease in the Saudi Royal Court, adorned with gilded furniture and grand crystal chandeliers. The welcoming ceremony was a striking display of military might, with Air Force One flanked by three F-15 fighter jets and Trump’s presidential limo escorted by mounted riders in traditional Arabian attire.The atmosphere exuded friendship between Trump and the Saudi royals, who have long-standing business relationships with the Trump family. "I really believe we like each other a lot," Trump stated, sharing an office setting with the crown prince. His evident pleasure with the surroundings, surrounded by gold-leaf accents and elegant décor, symbolized the close diplomatic ties shared between the United States and Saudi Arabia.As Trump and the crown prince toured the lavish venue, the cordial rapport fostered through years of mutual cooperation was palpable, underscoring the strategic alliances formed between their respective administrations. This formal reception signals a continued dedication to strengthening relationships, grounded in both political and business interests.
