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Saudi Arabia Showcases Personalized Diplomacy with Mobile McDonald’s During Trump Visit

A bilingual McDonald’s truck at Riyadh’s Media Oasis highlights Saudi Arabia’s symbolic hospitality during President Trump’s Gulf tour.

Parked outside the “Media Oasis,” the media hub hosting journalists and showcasing Saudi innovation, the truck was first spotted by i24 News journalist Mordechai Wagenheim, who documented it on X. (@Mike_Wagenheim via X.com)
Former President Donald Trump as he works behind the counter during a visit to McDonalds in Feasterville-Trevose, PA, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024.  (POOL Photo by Doug Mills/The New York Times
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Overview

  • Saudi Arabia stationed a fully outfitted, bilingual mobile McDonald’s truck at the Media Oasis press center for journalists covering President Trump’s visit.
  • The truck, prominently displayed but not yet operational, reflects Trump’s well-documented preference for McDonald’s, as detailed in Jared Kushner’s memoir.
  • The gesture is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to use personalized hospitality and media staging to strengthen ties with the U.S.
  • The Media Oasis also features exhibits promoting Saudi megaprojects like Neom and preparations for the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
  • Trump’s Gulf tour aims to secure significant investments and partnerships, with Saudi Arabia emphasizing soft power and innovation in its diplomatic approach.