Donald Trump, the leader of the world’s most powerful country, is renowned for his influence and position at the helm of the largest economy and military. However, during his recent trip to the Middle East, the American president seemed somewhat envious of his wealthier Gulf counterparts.
While in Qatar, he admired the “perfect” marble in the Qatari palace, describing it as “very hard to buy,” and praised the “gleaming marvels” of Saudi Arabia’s skyline. On his flight, he mentioned that the Gulf states all had brand-new Boeing 747s, while he was still using a nearly 40-year-old version of Air Force One.
Trump’s frustration with the aging plane has led him to consider accepting a replacement jet from Qatar, though there are concerns about the security risks, the cost of retrofitting, and the constitutional implications of accepting foreign gifts. Despite this, he hasn’t provided a clear national security reason for rushing an upgrade rather than waiting for Boeing to complete the new Air Force One jets that are already in development.
Trump’s fascination with the opulence of the Gulf States seemed to be a moment of “keeping up with the Joneses,” but in this case, the “Joneses” are the ultra-wealthy, oil-rich leaders of Middle Eastern autocracies. As a former real estate developer with a penchant for lavishness, this trip offered Trump a glimpse into the lives of his more extravagant counterparts.
At a visit to the Amiri Diwan palace in Qatar, Trump, who has a background in construction, gushed over the beauty of the marble. “This is what they call perfecto,” he said, expressing admiration for the craftsmanship. Other parts of the trip showcased lavish welcomes: fighter jet escorts for Air Force One, golden sword-wielding honor guards in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and even camels greeting the president’s limousine in Doha, Qatar.
Trump’s admiration for these displays of wealth and power is also a departure from the traditional American ideals. After declaring independence from the British monarchy, the United States sought to reject anything that resembled royal grandeur. However, this has never been Trump’s style. His luxurious New York penthouse is decorated with gold and marble, and parts of his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida are modeled after the Palace of Versailles.
After securing a second term as president, Trump seems eager to introduce this same lavish style into his presidency. His visit to the Middle East may inspire further renovations, especially as he has previously commented on how cramped the White House feels. Some rooms lack the space to host large events, forcing the use of a temporary tent for state dinners.
Trump has expressed a desire to create “a beautiful, beautiful ballroom like I have at Mar-a-Lago,” and has committed to spending $100 million on the project. “I think we’ve outgrown the tent stuff,” he said.
Some changes have already taken place, particularly in the Oval Office. The room now features gold accents on the fireplace, arches, and walls, as well as an increasing number of presidential portraits. Trump has also placed a model of the new Air Force One, featuring a design similar to that of his personal jet, on a table in the center of the room.
One of the president’s prized additions is a copy of the Declaration of Independence, which is kept behind a curtain to protect it from sunlight. He occasionally reveals it dramatically for guests.
“You see the new and improved Oval Office as it becomes more and more beautiful,” Trump remarked during a recent meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, describing the renovations as being done “with great love and 24-karat gold.”
