When President Donald Trump touched down in Abu Dhabi, he was greeted with a grand spectacle that felt more like a celebration than a political visit.
Dozens of children waved both U.S. and UAE flags, while local women performed the traditional ‘Al-Ayyala’ hair-twirling dance.
Trump, clearly enjoying the performance, beamed, “I love it!” as he made his way through the welcoming crowd.
The occasion was yet another state dinner—his third in as many nights—hosted by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Trump brought along a sizable entourage, including Stephen Miller, Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.
Showcasing Culture and Opulence
Trump appeared genuinely captivated by the culture and pageantry.
“It’s an amazing culture,” he remarked as he admired the lavish displays.
The U.S. president is in the region to secure what he called “tremendous” multi-trillion-dollar deals, praising the U.S. as a “hot country” making historic economic moves.
During a brief speech, he was honored with a necklace made of pure gold before heading into a formal dinner.
This tour, spanning Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and now the UAE, has been a whirlwind of diplomatic meetings and high-level talks.
Mosque Tour: Awe and Honor
One of the more solemn moments of the trip came when Trump visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.
Walking barefoot as required, he took in the white marble architecture, gilded chandeliers, and the massive hand-knotted carpet.
“This is incredible. So beautiful,” he said, emphasizing how honored he felt by the mosque being closed to the public during his visit.
“It’s a great tribute to the United States,” he added, standing alongside local dignitaries and officials.
Talking Peace—and Putin
While flying between stops on his tour, Trump addressed a pressing global issue: peace talks in Ukraine.
He told reporters aboard Air Force One that real progress won’t happen until he meets personally with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“Nothing is going to happen until Putin and I get together,” Trump insisted.
He criticized Putin’s absence from the Turkey-based talks, saying both leaders need to sit down face-to-face for anything meaningful to occur.
New Additions and Family News
Back on the home front, Trump’s family grew by one.
Tiffany Trump, his daughter, announced the birth of her baby boy, Alexander Trump Boulos, on Instagram.
Her heartfelt caption—“We love you beyond words!”—celebrated the arrival of Trump’s 11th grandchild.
Senate Republicans Push Iran Deal
Meanwhile, nearly all Senate Republicans signed a letter urging Trump to finalize a nuclear deal with Iran.
Their message was firm: dismantle Iran’s enrichment capabilities and avoid past pitfalls of lenient agreements.
Though Senator Rand Paul notably abstained from signing, the pressure is mounting for Trump to deliver.
A Reality Show Controversy
In a surprising twist, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is reportedly working on a reality show-style program where immigrants would compete for a fast-track to U.S. citizenship.
Critics have dubbed her “ICE Barbie,” accusing her of turning serious policy into a media stunt.
Cracking Down on China’s DNA Access
Trump’s administration is launching an investigation into Chinese-linked baby formula companies.
Officials are concerned that DNA and biometric data from Americans might be accessed by Chinese intelligence, especially since many of these firms operate under China’s surveillance laws.
An Unusual Goodbye in Qatar
Before leaving Qatar, Trump received a military sendoff that included a flyover of helicopters and fighter jets.
Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani joined him at the Al-Udeid Air Base to bid farewell as Trump headed to the UAE for the final leg of his trip.
The Gaza “Freedom Zone” Pitch
While in Doha, Trump floated a provocative idea: transforming Gaza into a “freedom zone.”
Comparing it to a future tourist destination, he said, “Let the United States take it, make it a freedom zone.”
Though the idea drew mixed reactions, it highlights his unconventional approach to Middle East policy.
Buttigieg vs. Trump
As rumors swirl about a 2028 presidential run, Pete Buttigieg threw subtle jabs at Trump online, posting about a Michigan bike ride.
Trump responded sarcastically, mocking Buttigieg for managing the U.S. air system while biking to work.
“And they say he wants to run for president?” Trump scoffed.
Third Term Speculation
Never one to avoid controversy, Trump once again hinted at a possible third term during a speech to U.S. troops in Qatar.
“Some people want us to do a fourth,” he said playfully, adding that the “Trump 2028” hat was driving the left “crazy.”
Eyeing a Trade Deal with India
In another notable remark, Trump shared that India has proposed a trade agreement with “no tariffs,” calling it a major shift.
He’d previously imposed a 26% tax but paused it to negotiate.
The U.S., after all, remains India’s largest trading partner.
Final Word on Peace and Power
Trump wrapped up his speech to American troops with gratitude and determination.
Referencing a soldier involved in saving lives during the Butler assassination attempt, he promised, “I want to end conflicts, not start them—but I will always defend the United States.”