Yesterday, May 15, 2025, US President Donald Trump made an official visit to the United Arab Emirates. Upon arrival at the airport, the US President met His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.
Trump began his visit by visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, accompanied by His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. The main mosque of the UAE capital is a symbol of tolerance and an architectural wonder that attracts millions of visitors.
Trump then went to the Qasr Al Watan Palace, where he left his VIP name in the guest book. This event marked the beginning of an official state dinner, at which the US President was awarded the Order of Zayed, the highest civilian award of the UAE, made of pure gold. Donald Trump became the first US president to receive this award in 2008, after George W. Bush.
In honor of Donald Trump’s visit, the iconic Burj Khalifa skyscraper was painted in the colors of the presidential flag — red, white, and blue. The incredible spectacle was shared on the White House’s social media channels.
During his visit, Trump also met with UAE astronauts including Sultana Al Nayadi, Hazza Al Mansoori, the first Emirati in space, and Nora Al Matrooshi, the first Arab woman to complete NASA training. The two countries have been actively collaborating on internet technology, including the NASA Gateway project.
Trump extended a huge congratulatory message to the UAE President, calling him a “brilliant man” and highlighting their long-standing relationship. His Highness, in turn, noted that the UAE will work with the US to promote peace and stability in the relationship and around the world. “Mr. President, I once again extend a warm welcome to you, and I hope that this visit will have a positive impact on our bilateral relations,” the UAE President said.
The visit marked an event that will strengthen economic and cultural ties between the U.S. and the UAE, opening up new horizons for cooperation.
On Friday, Trump plans to meet with U.S. embassy officials, attend a U.S.-UAE business event, and visit Abraham's family home on Saadiyat Island, a symbolic interfaith dialogue. The official visit is scheduled for midday Friday.
