Trump Ends Gulf Tour with Key AI and Energy Deals in UAE

Trump Concludes Gulf Tour with Major AI, Energy, and Investment Agreements in UAE

ABU DHABI — Former U.S. President Donald Trump concluded his four-day tour of the Gulf region on Friday with significant business and diplomatic outcomes, culminating in the United Arab Emirates. The deep strategic partnership between the United States and the Gulf states is highlighted by historic agreements in artificial intelligence, energy and investment that emerged from the visit, which focused on fostering economic ties.

UAE to buy cutting-edge US AI chips

Trump unveiled a breakthrough in technology partnership during his last stop in Abu Dhabi, saying the United States and the United Arab Emirates have created a framework for the Gulf nation to buy advanced artificial intelligence (AI) semiconductors from American manufacturers. The move demonstrates growing confidence in secure technology transfer and aligns with the UAE’s goal of becoming a global hub for artificial intelligence. The agreement includes provisions that US companies will oversee the management of the associated data centers to ensure security and compliance.

Trump highlighted the significance of the deal, saying it would bring in “billions and billions of dollars in business” and help fast-track the UAE’s emergence as a major AI power.

Massive Investment Commitments from UAE

Trump’s visit also sealed a pledge from Abu Dhabi to increase its energy investments in the United States to a total of $440 billion by 2035 — up from the current $70 billion. This was announced by Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, CEO of state energy firm ADNOC, who added that U.S. energy companies would, in turn, invest in UAE-based oil, gas, and innovative energy projects.

Further, the UAE’s international investment division, XRG — also chaired by Al Jaber — expressed strong interest in investing heavily in the American natural gas sector.

A major aviation deal was also part of the trip’s financial haul, with Etihad Airways committing $14.5 billion to purchase 28 Boeing aircraft, further strengthening aerospace ties.

Broader $1.4 Trillion Investment Framework

This Gulf visit builds on a broader 10-year, $1.4 trillion investment initiative announced in March, where the UAE committed to funding U.S. sectors like AI, clean energy, and manufacturing. Trump noted that progress on that framework is accelerating, reflecting a deepening economic bond between the nations.

Strategic Diplomacy: Syria and Sanctions Shift

In a notable diplomatic pivot, Trump also confirmed that U.S. sanctions on Syria have been lifted following Saudi Arabia’s request — a move enabling new regional business ventures. Shortly after, Syria and Dubai-based DP World signed an $800 million memorandum of understanding to develop the port of Tartous.

Trump acknowledged that he did not consult Israel regarding this policy shift, stating, “I thought it was the right thing to do. We want Syria to succeed.” He also encouraged Syria’s new leader, President Sharaa, to normalize relations with Israel and consider joining the Abraham Accords — a series of peace agreements brokered by the U.S. during Trump’s first term.

Iran Nuclear Deal on the Table

Regarding Iran, Trump revealed that Tehran has received a U.S. proposal for a nuclear agreement. Emphasizing urgency, he warned that Iran must act swiftly or risk serious consequences. “They know they have to move quickly, or something bad’s going to happen,” he stated during his return flight aboard Air Force One.

Trump’s Gulf tour, covering Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, focused almost entirely on economic diplomacy, prioritizing trade and investment over traditional regional security issues. The result is a substantial financial and strategic boost for the U.S., with long-term commitments across multiple high-growth sectors.