Trump Declares Saudi Arabia a Major Non-NATO Ally During White House Visit
The partnership between the United States and Saudi Arabia reached a major milestone after US President Donald Trump officially announced that Saudi Arabia would be designated as a major non-NATO ally. The announcement came during a high-profile gala dinner hosted at the White House in honour of Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman on November 18, 2025.
This special status, which has been granted to only 19 countries so far, is highly significant. It places Saudi Arabia in a preferred defence and security category that allows deeper military cooperation, priority access to American weapons systems, and closer political alignment. For both nations, this step is seen as a move that reinforces long-standing strategic ties.
During the event, President Trump described the designation as a meaningful upgrade in the military relationship between Washington and Riyadh. He stated that both countries were ready to “take military cooperation to even greater heights.” According to Trump, the decision was kept secret until the evening of the gala as a gesture of respect toward the Crown Prince and to make the announcement more special.
The visit also included discussions on major defence deals, including the sale of the advanced F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia—technology that is usually available only to Washington’s closest partners. For Saudi Arabia, gaining access to these aircraft represents a significant boost in its defence capabilities. For the United States, it strengthens an important alliance in the Middle East, a region that remains geopolitically sensitive.
Beyond defence cooperation, economic ties were also a central part of the meeting. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman spoke about Saudi Arabia’s goal to raise total Saudi investment in the US economy to $1 trillion, up from the current $600 billion. This reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader vision to expand international partnerships, diversify its economy, and build new sectors under its Vision 2030 strategy.
Both leaders emphasized that the relationship between their countries extends far beyond defence. They highlighted ongoing cooperation in fields such as technology, renewable energy, space, health, and communications. Recent agreements signed between the US and Saudi Arabia cover 18 new areas of collaboration, showcasing an expanding partnership across multiple sectors.
The Crown Prince’s warm reception at the White House, the discussions with top US officials, and the multiple high-value agreements all demonstrate the importance each country places on this bilateral relationship. The designation as a major non-NATO ally is not only symbolic but also strategic. It confirms that Saudi Arabia remains one of the United States’ key partners in the Middle East.
For Saudi Arabia, this status strengthens its global position and supports its long-term defence modernization plans. For the United States, it ensures continued stability in a region crucial for global energy markets and international security.
President Trump’s announcement marks a turning point that may lead to deeper cooperation in the years to come. Analysts believe this move signals a future where both nations will work more closely on regional security, counterterrorism, economic growth, and technological development.
Overall, the White House visit underscored a relationship built on shared interests and mutual ambitions. As the Crown Prince continues to push forward with Saudi Arabia’s modernization plans and the US seeks strong partners in global security, the newly announced ally status represents a major step toward a more powerful and cooperative partnership.
Related News
