Watch: Saudi Arabia rolls out lavender carpet for Donald Trump

As Donald Trump touched down in Riyadh on Tuesday, May 13 for his first stop on his Middle East tour, Saudi Arabia rolled out not a red but a lavender carpet for the US President.

It almost immediately caught the world's attention. As is regular convention, the red carpet is rolled out for visiting heads of state, ministers, the world over. But unlike other countries, Saudi Arabia has lavender as the official colour to welcome state guests.

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In 2021, the Kingdom officially adopted the colour for carpets used in welcoming state guests, including presidents, ministers, ambassadors, and representatives of friendly nations. The colour is used during various official occasions.

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The shift to lavender reflects a deep connection to the natural landscape of the Kingdom. In spring, Saudi Arabia's deserts and plateaus bloom in hues of purple with lavender flowers and native plants such as Al Ayhalan and Basil, creating a striking natural carpet. This seasonal transformation is seen as a symbol of the land’s hospitality and generosity, aligning with the values of the Saudi people.

Watch the video below:

Adding to the cultural richness of the design, the edges of the purple ceremonial carpets are adorned with traditional Sadu weaving patterns, an art form recognised by Unesco as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. These decorative motifs give the carpets a distinctly Saudi character and underscore the Kingdom’s commitment to preserving and modernising its folk crafts.

The initiative is part of the broader cultural revival under Saudi Vision 2030, which emphasises national identity, heritage, and sustainable growth. The redesigned carpets symbolise the Kingdom’s renaissance, pride in its history, and a renewed cultural narrative that intertwines land, people, and tradition.

Earlier, Saudi Air Force fighter jets escorted Air Force One, the US President's official plane, as it entered the Kingdom's airspace.