Trump’s MENA real estate push: Landmark projects and their impact

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has made a bold move into the Middle East, expanding his business empire through a series of high-profile real estate and retail projects.

During his previous term, Trump earned at least $9.6 million from Middle Eastern countries, according to a CREW analysis, and his recent real estate projects in the gulf might deepen his connections in the region.

These ventures are set to transform the region’s real estate landscape. However, they have not been without challenges, particularly in light of Trump’s controversial political statements.

Key Destinations: UAE, Oman, and KSA

One of Trump's most ambitious endeavors is the Trump International Villas and Golf Resort in Oman, part of the $4 billion Aida development near Muscat.

This project features a championship golf course designed by a renowned golf professional, 3,500 residential units, two hotels, and luxury retail and wellness centers.

Developed in partnership with Dar Al Arkan, a leading Saudi-based real estate company, the resort is perched on a high peak offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of Oman.

Designed with sustainability in mind, it is poised to become a landmark in luxury living, with an expected opening in December 2028.

In Saudi Arabia, the Trump Tower Jeddah stands as another significant development. This project, also in collaboration with Dar Global, the international arm of Dar Al Arkan, includes luxury residential units and commercial spaces aimed at redefining Jeddah’s real estate market.

Although the launch date has not been specified, this project is anticipated to become an iconic part of the city’s skyline, attracting international investors and setting new benchmarks for high-end living.

Dubai is not left out of Trump’s expansion plans

Trump Tower Dubai, set to launch in 2025, is the third collaboration between the Trump Organization and Dar Global.

Located in a prime area of Dubai, this development will feature the Trump Hotel and branded residential units, boasting state-of-the-art amenities and world-class services. The design and location details are expected to be unveiled by the end of 2024.

Dubai is already home to Trump International Golf Club Dubai, a central feature in DAMAC's Akoya, now known as Dubai Hills.

This development includes Trump PRVT mansions and villas and a Trump Spa & Wellness Centre, collectively valued at around $6 billion, showcasing the Trump Organization's commitment to integrating luxury living with premier golfing facilities.

Challenges and Controversies

Despite the ambitious scale of these projects, Trump’s ventures in the Middle East have encountered significant challenges due to his political statements.

In 2015, following his anti-Muslim comments, Landmark, a major retail chain in the UAE, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, halted sales of Trump Home products.

This was a direct response to the backlash against Trump’s proposed ban on Muslims entering the United States, causing unease among his business partners in the region.

In a similar vein, DAMAC Properties removed a massive billboard featuring Donald Trump at the Akoya site after his call for a "total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States."

Economic and Strategic Impact

Despite these controversies, Trump’s ventures in Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Dubai highlight the strategic importance of the Middle East as a hub for luxury developments.

These projects not only reflect Trump’s ongoing influence in the real estate sector but also underline the region's growing appeal to affluent global citizens.

With substantial investments and high-profile partnerships, these developments are set to redefine the region's luxury real estate landscape, attracting significant tourism and business investments, and contributing to the economic growth of Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.