In a significant development for US-Saudi economic relations, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has announced ambitious plans for massive Saudi investments in the United States. This declaration comes at a time when both nations are exploring new dimensions of their long-standing partnership, moving beyond their traditional oil-based relationship.
Saudi Arabia plans $600 billion US investment
During a phone conversation with President Donald Trump, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman revealed Saudi Arabia’s intention to invest $600 billion in the United States over the next four years. According to the state-run Saudi Press Agency, the crown prince stated, “The kingdom’s intention to broaden its investments and trade with the United States over the next four years, in the amount of $600 billion, and potentially beyond that.”
Evolving economic ties
The investment strategy represents a significant shift in US-Saudi relations, which historically centered on oil trade. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has diversified its investments in the American market, with its sovereign wealth funds taking substantial positions in various US businesses and showing increasing interest in sports investments.
Presidential interest in Saudi relations
The announcement coincides with President Trump’s recent comments about potentially making Saudi Arabia his first foreign destination, echoing his 2017 presidential term. “The first foreign trip typically has been with the U.K. but … I did it with Saudi Arabia last time because they agreed to buy $450 billion worth of our products,” Trump told journalists in the Oval Office. He added, “If Saudi Arabia wanted to buy another $450 billion or $500 — we’ll up it for all the inflation — I think I’d probably go.”
The communication between the two leaders marks a notable diplomatic exchange, with the crown prince also holding discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. While the White House has not yet released an official readout of the call, it represents the first internationally reported communication between Trump and a foreign leader since his return to office.
The 2017 presidential visit to Saudi Arabia had significant regional implications, leading to a years-long boycott of Qatar by four Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia.
