Trump organization strikes lucrative golf resort deal in Qatar

In Qatar, the Trump family company finalized a major deal to create a luxury golf resort that includes Trump-branded villas and an 18-hole golf course. This venture marks the company's first foray into foreign business since Donald Trump assumed office as President of the United States. Interestingly, the development springs from an alliance with a Saudi Arabian company named Dar Global, which is associated with the Saudi royal family, along with the Qatari government-owned firm Qatari Diar. As of April 2025, this development raises ethical questions about potential conflicts of interest following Trump's leadership. The decision to pursue international business dealings comes amidst ongoing discussions about Trump's influence on U.S. foreign policy and accusations that he may prioritize personal financial gain over national interests. The Qatar project is particularly notable as it reflects an evolving relationship with foreign investors and governments, particularly in the Middle East, which has historically been a region of scrutiny for Trump's associates given his ties to the Saudi crown prince. Despite facing backlash during his first term due to ethical concerns and connections to Saudi Arabia—highlighted by the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi—Trump appears undeterred in his approach. Additionally, Trump's son Eric oversees the Trump Organization and has expressed eagerness to expand the family business abroad. His earlier statements revealed connections with both the Saudi firm and the Qatari company, consolidating Trump's network of international business partners. This latest deal may not be an isolated incident; previous agreements before Trump's administration had already sparked debate over the intersection of diplomacy and business, especially after deals established for projects in Vietnam and other nations. Throughout his presidency, Trump has encountered numerous instances where his business endeavors could be perceived as a conflict of interest, from his real estate properties to financial affiliations with foreign entities. As the golf resort in Qatar comes to life, stakeholders will likely watch closely to see how Trump's business decisions intertwine with U.S. foreign relations moving forward. Critics and government watchdogs have raised alarms regarding the implications of linking international business ventures to political power, sparking ongoing discussions about transparency and accountability in public office.