When you’re the former President of the United States and you’ve made no secret of your love for fast food—especially McDonald’s—it seems even foreign governments take note.
So when Donald Trump, now 78, touched down in Saudi Arabia for a high-profile Middle East tour, his favorite comfort food came right along with him.
In a surprising but symbolic move, Saudi officials arranged for a McDonald’s food truck to be stationed in Riyadh just for Trump, blending American familiarity with diplomatic hospitality.
Big Macs and Diplomacy in the Desert
According to a White House source, the golden arches weren’t just a random addition.
A fully branded McDonald’s trailer—complete with a double staircase and signage in both Arabic and English—was set up right outside a press zone called the “Media Oasis.”
This area was buzzing with journalists and media crews and featured slick video presentations promoting Saudi Arabia’s futuristic projects, like the upcoming NEOM smart city and their ambitious hosting of the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
But amidst all the tech and innovation, it was that unmistakable fast food scent that really got people talking.
Trump’s Longstanding Love Affair with McDonald’s
Trump’s fondness for McDonald’s isn’t exactly a state secret.
Over the years, he’s worn it like a badge of honor.
From ordering Big Macs during campaign trail marathons to serving fast food feasts at the White House, his bond with the brand has become part of his political persona.
Back in 2020, Jared Kushner even revealed that during Trump’s COVID-19 recovery, one of the first signs of his return to form was his craving for a Big Mac, Filet-O-Fish, fries, and a vanilla shake.
A Campaign Diet Fit for a Fast Food King
On the 2016 campaign trail, Trump’s go-to meal was a whopping 1,880-calorie order featuring two Big Macs, two Filet-O-Fish sandwiches, and a chocolate milkshake.
His ex-campaign manager Corey Lewandowski once spilled the details of just how much Trump leaned on the golden arches to fuel his grueling election schedule.
And who could forget the moment he put on a McDonald’s apron and worked the fryer at a branch in Feasterville-Trevose, Pennsylvania? Greeting surprised customers, he joked, “It’s my first day at McDonald’s. I’m looking for a job.”
From Fast Food Host to Drive-Thru Diplomat
That day, Trump even jumped behind the drive-thru window, taking orders and making promises about restoring America’s greatness.
His love for the brand clearly runs deeper than a quick bite—it’s practically become a campaign strategy.
In 2019, he famously served McDonald’s burgers to Clemson University’s football team at the White House, celebrating their national championship win.
“We’ve got some big guys who love to eat,” he said proudly. “It’s all-American. If it’s American, I like it.”
Fast Food for Safety and Familiarity on the Road
There’s also a practical side to Trump’s fast food obsession.
He reportedly believes chain restaurants offer consistent, safe meals with standardized preparation—something he values, especially on the road where concerns about food safety and potential poisoning linger.
That belief may explain why a McDonald’s food truck followed him all the way to Riyadh.
It’s not just about cravings; it’s about control, consistency, and comfort.
A Warm, Symbolic Welcome in Riyadh
The welcome Trump received in Saudi Arabia was anything but low-key.
American and Saudi flags lined the streets, and an impressive fleet of U.S.-style police vehicles stood on guard around major locations.
He was met on the tarmac by none other than Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, signaling the importance of this diplomatic visit.
However, during a sit-down with the prince, Trump looked a bit puzzled when ceremonial attendants, dressed in traditional garb and gun-belts, handed him a cup of Arabic coffee—a far cry from his usual Diet Coke.
Trump Heads to Qatar and the UAE Next
Trump’s four-day tour of the Middle East began Tuesday, with stops scheduled in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates after his time in Saudi Arabia.
The visit is being closely watched, not only for the political implications but also for the spectacle—and moments like the McDonald’s truck—that only Trump could inspire.