Trump Raked in $28 Million From Middle East Business Deals. Then He Started a War.

Mother Jones
by Russ Choma
April 10, 2026
4 views
5 min read

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The Bottom Line

President Trump's Middle East business interests, valued at $17 billion, are disrupted by the war he started.

How This Affects You

The war's disruption of the world economy and closure of the Strait of Hormuz could indirectly impact average Americans through higher energy costs or economic instability.

AI Summary

President Donald Trump has significant business interests in the Middle East, including a golf course, hotel, and villas project in Oman developed by Saudi real estate developer Dar Global, from which he earned $1 million in licensing fees in 2024. His total revenue from partners across the region in 2024 was $28.1 million, with Trump-connected projects valued at roughly $17 billion. These interests, which also include projects in Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, have faced disruption and direct Iranian attacks since Trump and his Israeli allies launched a surprise attack on Iran in March. For example, an Iranian drone struck an oil tanker 90 miles offshore from the Omani resort's proposed location two days after the attack, and another hit the Al Minhad airbase near Trump Golf Dubai. The war has disrupted the world economy, Trump’s political fortunes, and his Middle Eastern business interests, with the Strait of Hormuz remaining closed despite a fragile ceasefire.

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