U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) to the White House this week for high level talks aimed at deepening economic and defence ties between Washington and Riyadh. During their meeting, MBS pledged to increase Saudi Arabia’s investment in the U.S. from the previously announced $600 billion to nearly $1 trillion, saying the funds would flow across the American economy in sectors from technology to infrastructure.
The pledge builds on a longstanding strategic partnership between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia. The White House fact sheet detailed how the expanded investment commitment will link to new agreements on civil nuclear cooperation, artificial intelligence development, critical minerals frameworks, and advanced defence deals. The designation of Saudi Arabia as a “major non-NATO ally” during the meeting further underscores the significance of the visit.
Background / History
U.S.–Saudi relations have been a key axis in Middle East diplomacy for decades, rooted in energy, defence, and strategic alignment. In 2017, President Trump’s first foreign trip took him to Riyadh, where major arms and investment deals were announced. Over time, the U.S. sought to balance regional security interests particularly countering Iran with economic ties to the Gulf kingdom.
In January 2025, MBS had previously pledged $600 billion in U.S. investment during a phone call with Trump, signalling the kingdom’s intention to deepen its role in the American economy. The new announcement of nearly $1 trillion reflects an escalation of that commitment and sets the stage for broad cooperation in defence, technology and infrastructure.
Furthermore, the meeting comes amid ongoing controversies surrounding MBS, including the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, an event that has strained Riyadh’s relations with Washington and raised questions about accountability.
What Happens Next
The large-scale investment pledge opens significant opportunities for U.S. workers, companies and industries. According to the White House, the agreements signed will create jobs, boost American exports, and deepen supply chain resilience for critical minerals. On the defence front, Saudi Arabia is poised to purchase advanced weaponry, including potential F-35 fighter jets, reinforcing the kingdom’s role as a major U.S. partner.
Analysts caution, however, that such ambitious plans face risks: geopolitical upheaval, shifting oil markets, technological export controls, and scrutiny of human rights issues may all influence implementation. Nonetheless, the magnitude of the investment and depth of agreements signal a turning point in U.S.–Saudi relations.
