By Zainab Shafiq 
Trump’s Gulf investment tour kicked off in Riyadh, but it wasn’t just about billion-dollar defense deals. One figure drawing global curiosity: What is Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk doing alongside President Donald Trump in Saudi Arabia? As the second-term president launched a flurry of agreements worth over $1 trillion, Musk’s presence raised eyebrows and plenty of speculation.
The tech billionaire wasn’t merely a guest. Musk is currently leading the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a role he’s held since Trump’s re-election. Though his sway over policy may have cooled recently, especially on tariffs and global trade, Musk still plays a key role in Trump’s economic vision.
Elon Musk Joins Dealmakers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Trump’s Gulf investment tour drew top executives from the worlds of finance and tech. From BlackRock’s Larry Fink to Amazon’s Andy Jassy, the lineup was stacked. But Musk stood out, both for his influence and his past tensions with Saudi Arabia. In 2018, Musk and Saudi’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) clashed over a failed plan to take Tesla private. That feud led to regulatory trouble and soured relations — until now.
Musk attended the Saudi-US Investment Forum on the sidelines of the official visit. He was seen speaking with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Trump at the Royal Court during a traditional coffee ceremony. According to reports, Trump personally introduced Musk to the crown prince — a strong signal that old conflicts are being buried in favor of new business opportunities.
Is Tesla Eyeing Saudi Expansion?
While details remain private, Musk’s reappearance in Riyadh suggests Tesla and his other ventures, like xAI, could be exploring investment or expansion possibilities in the kingdom. Tesla only formally entered the Saudi market in April, a quiet but significant move that may now accelerate.
Trump’s Gulf investment tour isn’t just about flashy defense contracts — it’s also a chance for American business giants like Musk to reforge ties and unlock new deals. Whether it’s EVs, AI, or infrastructure, Musk’s lunch with Trump and Saudi leaders shows he’s back in the room where it happens.
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