President Donald Trump has announced a series of agreements exceeding $200 billion between the United States and the United Arab Emirates, including a $14.5 billion deal involving Etihad Airways, Boeing, and GE Aerospace. The announcement was made during Trump’s visit to the UAE, part of his broader Middle East tour aimed at strengthening economic and diplomatic ties.
Etihad Airways confirmed the purchase of 28 wide-body Boeing aircraft equipped with GE engines, scheduled for delivery starting in 2028. The order includes Boeing 787 and next-generation 777X models, aligning with Etihad’s strategy to expand its fleet to over 170 aircraft by 2030. This expansion supports Abu Dhabi’s broader economic diversification goals.
The Etihad deal is part of a larger set of agreements announced during Trump’s Gulf tour, which included significant investments from Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Qatar Airways signed a $96 billion contract for 160 Boeing jetliners, while Qatar committed $10 billion to the Al Udeid Air Base near Doha. Saudi Arabia pledged $600 billion in investments, further highlighting the scale of economic engagement between the US and Gulf nations.
These agreements are expected to bolster US manufacturing and exports, with the Boeing deals alone projected to support thousands of American jobs. The partnerships also reflect the Gulf nations’ ambitions to become global hubs for aviation and technology.
Trump’s visit to the UAE included meetings with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and business leaders, focusing on enhancing bilateral economic relations. The discussions emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships in sectors such as aviation, defense, and technology.
The announcement of these deals comes amid ongoing regional tensions and domestic policy debates in the US. Trump’s administration has faced criticism over its approach to issues such as birthright citizenship and COVID-19 vaccine recommendations. Nevertheless, the economic agreements underscore the administration’s focus on strengthening international alliances and promoting American industry.
Etihad Airways’ expansion plans, including the acquisition of new aircraft and the addition of destinations, are part of its efforts to enhance global connectivity and support Abu Dhabi’s vision for economic diversification. The airline’s growth strategy is expected to contribute significantly to the UAE’s position as a leading player in the global aviation industry.
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