U.S.-UAE Finalize $200 Billion Trade Deal, Etihad Orders 28 Boeing Aircraft

U.S.-UAE Finalize $200 Billion Trade Deal, Etihad Orders 28 Boeing Aircraft
[May 16, 2025]

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that a trade deal worth over $200 billion has been finalized between the United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). One of the most notable agreements within this package is a $14.5 billion deal involving Boeing, GE Aerospace, and Etihad Airways, under which Etihad will purchase 28 Boeing wide-body aircraft.

Etihad stated that the aircraft will be powered by engines from General Electric (GE) and will be gradually added to its fleet starting in 2028. The Abu Dhabi-based airline said the deal is part of its ongoing network and operational modernization strategy.

According to a statement from the White House, this investment will include Boeing 787 and the next-generation 777X models, which are expected to give a strong boost to the U.S. export sector and manufacturing industry.

Etihad currently operates a fleet of around 100 aircraft. The airline's CEO, Antonoaldo Neves, stated last month that the carrier aims to expand its fleet to over 170 aircraft by 2030. He added that the airline plans to add 20 to 22 new planes this year alone, including 10 Airbus A321LR aircraft set to enter service starting August. Additionally, the fleet will receive 6 Airbus A350s and 4 Boeing 787s.

Meanwhile, during President Trump’s Gulf tour, Qatar Airways also signed a major deal. The airline is purchasing 160 wide-body aircraft, with an option to acquire 50 more, in a total agreement valued at $96 billion — which the White House described as the largest wide-body aircraft order in Boeing’s history.

These deals not only strengthen commercial ties between the two countries but also reinforce the partnership between the Middle East and the U.S. in the aviation industry and broader economic cooperation.