Donald Trump’s longtime business associate, Thomas Barrack, is capitalizing on deep connections with Gulf states as the family-run Trump Organization benefits from a thriving real estate market. Barrack, who has cultivated ties across the Middle East for decades, has played a pivotal role in linking Trump’s business interests with opportunities in the region, particularly in property development.
Trump’s investments, including luxury properties in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, have seen significant attention from buyers in Gulf nations. These developments align with a broader strategy to position the Trump brand as a luxury marker in key global markets. The region’s appetite for high-end real estate, boosted by rising oil revenues and economic diversification strategies, has provided fertile ground for the Trump Organization’s ventures.
Barrack, a private equity veteran and former chairman of Colony Capital, has built a reputation as a dealmaker in the Gulf, fostering relationships with influential leaders. His role as a Middle East intermediary became especially prominent during Trump’s presidency, a period that saw heightened U.S.-Gulf cooperation. Critics argue that Barrack leveraged his political proximity to secure deals favorable to Trump enterprises, raising questions about conflicts of interest.
Beyond Barrack’s efforts, the Trump Organization has actively promoted its brand through alliances with local developers in the region. Dubai’s DAMAC Properties, for example, has collaborated with the Trumps on two golf courses and a series of branded villas. These ventures have not only expanded the organization’s footprint but have also underscored the brand’s appeal among Gulf elites.
As Gulf states pursue transformative projects like Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which includes futuristic cities such as NEOM, Trump-branded properties are poised to align with these ambitious goals. High net-worth individuals in the Gulf continue to gravitate toward U.S.-based luxury real estate, often tied to high-profile figures such as Trump, amplifying their international investments. Observers note that this trend reflects a broader cultural affinity for conspicuous consumption and international prestige.
However, this proximity to Gulf wealth has sparked scrutiny. Barrack faced legal challenges in the U.S. over accusations of lobbying for the United Arab Emirates without registering as a foreign agent, though he was acquitted of these charges. While his acquittal removed a legal hurdle, critics remain skeptical about his role in facilitating deals that intertwine Trump’s personal interests with U.S. diplomacy. Advocacy groups have pointed out how such overlapping interests could erode public trust in governance.
Barrack’s influence extends beyond business, as he has shaped U.S.-Gulf relations during key moments, often advocating for policies beneficial to Gulf leaders. During Trump’s presidency, this included supporting Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and maintaining close ties with UAE’s Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed. These relationships, analysts suggest, have bolstered Trump’s standing in Gulf business circles, creating pathways for future collaborations.
Meanwhile, the Trump Organization is also benefitting domestically from Gulf-driven investments in U.S. properties. A surge in high-value purchases, including in cities like Miami and New York, has spotlighted Middle Eastern buyers seeking diversification away from regional economies. Gulf investors often favor luxury brands, with Trump properties ranking high on their lists.
Despite these successes, Trump’s brand faces reputational challenges. Investigations into the former president’s handling of classified documents and ongoing legal disputes have cast a shadow over his business ventures. Still, Barrack’s enduring ties to Gulf leaders may insulate some of these concerns, ensuring continued patronage.
The intersection of business and politics remains a focal point, with critics urging transparency and ethical boundaries to prevent undue influence. For the Trump Organization, the Gulf represents both opportunity and controversy—a region where luxury, diplomacy, and business blend in a complex narrative.
