Executives close to one of Saudi Arabia’s most influential real estate developers say a new Trump-branded project in the kingdom is “just a matter of time,” signalling that the Trump Organization and the Saudi government are advancing talks on a significant property deal. The discussions come as Donald Trump returns to the White House, intensifying scrutiny over the overlap between U.S. foreign policy and the former president’s private business interests.

Saudi businessman Abdullah al-Fadhel, chief executive of Dar Global, told reporters that the partnership is progressing and that the firm expects a formal announcement once plans are finalised. The Trump Organization declined public comment but has a long-standing commercial relationship with Dar Global, including luxury resort and residential projects in Oman and the United Arab Emirates.

The timing is notable. Riyadh is seeking deeper ties with Washington as regional tensions sharpen, and Trump’s renewed influence is reshaping U.S. policy in the Middle East. A branded real estate project would mark the closest collaboration yet between the Trump family business and Saudi government-backed entities since the former president left office in 2021.

Analysts say the arrangement raises questions that have defined previous Trump ventures in the Gulf. Trump maintains ownership of the Trump Organization despite holding public office, and foreign governments pursuing dealings with his private companies risk appearing to curry political favour. The Saudi government, for its part, is expanding massive tourism and housing developments under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 plan, turning to globally recognisable brands to boost international appeal.

Saudi developers insist the project is a commercial venture with no political intent. But foreign policy experts note that Trump and senior Saudi officials have maintained warm ties for nearly a decade, from major defense and investment deals to joint diplomatic undertakings.

If finalised, the project would add another layer to an already complex relationship between Washington and Riyadh, arriving at a moment when U.S. influence in the region is evolving and competition among global powers is intensifying. Industry watchers say the deal could also shape how foreign governments approach Trump’s private business interests throughout his presidency.