In Diliyah, Saudi Arabia, President Trump was transported to a dinner in a golf cart by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Tuesday, marking a ceremonial tribute to the visiting U.S. leader.
At the age of 78, Trump entered the cart driven by the 39-year-old Crown Prince, receiving a warm welcome in the historic capital of the Saudi royal family, located near Riyadh.
As he arrived for the formal state dinner with ministers and tech entrepreneur Elon Musk, dozens of men donned in traditional Saudi attire, complete with white robes and red scarves, danced to drumbeats outside the Salwa Palace, which dates back to 1765.
The route to the venue was adorned with jockeys flying flags and camel riders, contributing to the festive atmosphere.
The choice of a golf cart might reflect a personal touch in diplomacy, especially since Trump is known for his love of golf and often uses such transport during his weekend retreats.
Earlier that day, the Saudi government had greeted Trump’s Air Force One with a welcoming display of six fighter jets, while white Arabian horses led the convoy to the royal palace.
Throughout the day, Trump and the Crown Prince, often referred to as MBS, exchanged warm words, a stark contrast to the chilly reception received by President Biden during his visit.
Trump expressed enthusiasm about nearly $1 trillion in new investments from Saudi Arabia into the United States, along with a pledge of $142 billion in weapon sales to the kingdom. This reaffirmed military ties that have been contentious due to the ongoing war in Yemen.
The visit and dinner were meticulously planned by the Saudi government, with journalists advised to keep quiet upon arrival to maintain the decorum expected of such an event.
