U.S. President Donald Trump has arrived in Saudi Arabia, the first stop on his Middle East tour since returning to the White House. His visit marks the beginning of a high-stakes diplomatic mission that is expected to include the signing of arms deals reportedly worth up to $1 trillion (€900 billion).

Trump was welcomed with full royal honors upon his arrival in Riyadh, where he is scheduled to hold meetings with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other top officials. The discussions are expected to focus on regional security, counterterrorism cooperation, and expanding military ties between the two countries.

However, the trip is already drawing controversy due to a reported gift from the government of Qatar—a luxury airliner described by some as a “flying palace.” The aircraft, allegedly offered to Trump ahead of his stop in Doha later this week, has raised alarm among U.S. ethics watchdogs.

Critics say the gift presents a clear conflict of interest, especially as Trump is expected to finalize massive weapons deals with Gulf nations during his tour.

“This is not diplomacy—it’s personal enrichment,” said Danielle Carter, a senior analyst at the Washington-based Public Accountability Center. “Accepting such an extravagant gift from a foreign government while negotiating arms contracts is deeply problematic under U.S. ethics laws.”

The White House has not commented directly on the controversy, but officials close to the president insist the aircraft is intended for official use and not a personal gift.

Trump’s next stops include Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, where he will continue efforts to strengthen American alliances in the region while navigating growing scrutiny back home.