Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to Washington on November 18 has triggered fresh momentum in Saudi–US ties, with both sides signalling plans to expand cooperation in defence, technology, and large-scale investment. The meeting with Donald Trump focused heavily on strengthening strategic alignment as the region faces rapidly evolving security and economic challenges.
Officials involved in the discussions indicated that Saudi Arabia is considering raising its investment portfolio in the United States from the previously signaled $600 billion to nearly $1 trillion. The expanded investment would target key sectors including artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, energy technology, and digital infrastructure—areas seen as essential for long-term economic transformation.
Defence cooperation formed a second major pillar of the talks, with emphasis on modernizing systems and enhancing joint capabilities to protect regional stability. Analysts say the renewed engagement could accelerate the GCC’s shift toward high-tech economic diversification while reinforcing its security partnerships with Washington.
