US President Donald Trump announced that Qatar will invest $10 billion in the Al Udeid Air Base, the largest U.S. air base in the Middle East, over the coming years.
Trump made this announcement during a speech to US troops at the base in Doha, Qatar’s capital. The investment is part of a broader deal that includes $42 billion in Qatari defence purchases signed on Wednesday.
The deal is significant for the US military’s presence in the region. Trump emphasised the importance of the partnership between the US and Qatar during his speech. This development comes as part of Trump’s four-day swing through the Gulf region, where he has been engaging in diplomatic efforts and securing business deals.
Trump’s trip has also focused on diplomacy, including a surprise announcement to remove long-standing sanctions on Syria. He met with Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa and encouraged him to establish ties with Israel. This move marks a significant shift in US policy towards Syria.
In the United Arab Emirates, Trump will meet with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss artificial intelligence. The US has a preliminary agreement with the UAE to export 500,000 Nvidia AI chips annually, starting this year. This deal would boost the UAE’s construction of data centres vital for developing AI models. However, national security concerns have been raised, and the terms of the agreement might change.
The potential chip deal has sparked debate due to concerns that the semiconductors could be diverted to China, enhancing Beijing’s military strength. Former President Joe Biden’s administration had imposed strict oversight on US AI chip exports to the Middle East. If the proposed chip deals come to fruition, the Gulf region could become a significant player in global AI competition, alongside the US and China.
Trump will meet with UAE leaders to discuss AI and other key issues. His administration has prioritised improving ties with Gulf countries. The president had considered a side trip to Turkey for Russia-Ukraine talks, but ultimately decided against it.
