Rubio Meets UAE Leaders with Trump’s Son‑In‑Law Michael Boulos in Abu Dhabi
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio concluded a diplomatic visit to the United Arab Emirates on June 24, 2026, where he met with President Mohamed bin Zayed al‑Nahyan and other senior Emirati officials. The agenda centered on the United States’ memorandum of understanding with Iran, efforts to ensure the safe passage of commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, and broader regional stability.
Notably, Michael Boulos, a Lebanese‑American entrepreneur and husband of former President Donald Trump’s daughter Tiffany, sat beside Rubio at the head of the conference table. Boulos, the son‑in‑law of the former president, has no formal government position and has faced past accusations of using Trump family ties for personal financial advantage.
Following the meeting, Rubio posted on social media that he thanked the UAE leadership for its “unparalleled support,” praised their “courage and resilience in the face of Iran’s attacks,” and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to Emirati security and the bilateral partnership. He also highlighted discussions of the Trump‑era Iran MOU and the strategic importance of securing uninterrupted maritime trade.
When reporters asked why Boulos was present, Rubio responded that the businessman was merely visiting his brother, who resides in the Gulf region, and that they had a chance to “catch up” as old friends. The explanation has drawn skepticism, given Boulos’ lack of official duties and the broader pattern of Trump family members appearing in foreign policy settings.
Analysts point out that the former president’s most prominent son‑in‑law, Jared Kushner, continues to profit from government‑backed crypto ventures and real‑estate projects throughout the Gulf after serving as a senior adviser. Boulos’ attendance at the high‑level meeting may signal an attempt to cultivate similar connections, leveraging the Trump brand for business development.
The episode underscores ongoing concerns about the intersection of personal relationships and official diplomatic engagements, particularly when members of the former president’s inner circle are involved without a clear governmental role.
