U.S. President Donald Trump has unveiled business deals exceeding $200 billion with the United Arab Emirates during his ongoing multiday visit to the Middle East. The agreements aim to deepen strategic and economic ties between the two nations.
Etihad Commits $14.5 Billion to Boeing and GE
A significant part of the package includes a $14.5 billion investment from Etihad Airways. The UAE-based airline will purchase 28 Boeing aircraft—comprising 787 and next-generation 777X models—powered by GE Aerospace engines. The White House highlighted this deal as a boost to U.S. manufacturing and export efforts, strengthening the long-standing aviation partnership between the two countries.
Etihad’s Growth Strategy
Etihad’s CEO Antonoaldo Neves recently shared plans to expand the airline’s fleet from about 100 aircraft to over 170 by 2030. In 2024 alone, Etihad intends to add 20 to 22 new aircraft, including 10 Airbus A321LRs, six Airbus A350s, and four Boeing 787s. The airline is backed by Abu Dhabi’s $225 billion sovereign wealth fund, ADQ, and has been undergoing a broad restructuring process.
Boeing’s Record Order from Qatar
The announcement comes shortly after Boeing revealed its largest-ever wide-body aircraft deal—worth $96 billion—with Qatar, further solidifying U.S. dominance in the aviation sector.Qatar Jet Gift Sparks Controversy
President Trump has also drawn attention for his plan to accept a $400 million luxury aircraft from the Qatari government. He has described the gift as a “transparent” deal, stating that the jet will serve as the new Air Force One and later be transferred to his presidential library. Critics have raised ethical concerns, but Trump defended the decision, saying the U.S. deserves “the most impressive plane.”
