Trump in Saudi Arabia: first international trip of second term kicks off

Landed in Riyadh, US president opens Middle East tour with official visit including ceremonies, meetings and a speech at Investment Forum

Donald Trump arrived in Saudi Arabia today, May 13, 2025, for his first major international trip of his second term. Air Force One landed at 9:49 a.m. local time at the Royal Terminal in Riyadh, where the U.S. president was welcomed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman with full state honors, starting with the traditional royal purple carpet.

After the official greeting, Trump and Mbs lounged in an airport lounge, seated on opulent purple chairs with gold trim, under portraits of the Saudi royal family. With the president were Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Energy Secretary Chris Wright.

The Saudi capital was decked out for the occasion: American and Saudi flags decorated the streets, while F-15 military jets escorted the approaching Air Force One, as documented by accompanying media and deputy chief of staff Dan Scavino.

Later in the day, Trump will attend an official welcoming ceremony, meet with delegations, attend a luncheon with business leaders and the signing of the Royal Court Agreement. He is also scheduled to address the U.S.-Saudi Arabia Investment Forum.

The visit will continue with a stop at the UNESCO sites of Dir’iyah and At-Turaif, before concluding with an official dinner with the crown prince. Riyadh represents only the first stop on a regional tour that will also take Trump to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

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(Photo: © AndKronos)