Syrian Tycoons Pitched Trump-Branded Golf Course to Help Lift US Sanctions: Timeline

The sanctions repeal was signed into law by Donald Trump on December 18, 2025, as part of a nearly $1 trillion US defence funding bill.

There is also discussion that the Khayyat family and Kushner's group could work together on future real estate projects in Syria as well, now that US sanctions have been lifted.

Separately, the Khayyat family said their business ties with Kushner have nothing to do with their push to get US sanctions on Syria removed.

Before leaving Washington, Al-Khayyat presented a "foundation stone" for a proposed Trump-branded golf course to lawmakers. It was labeled "Trump International Golf Club, Syria."

The White House and the Trump Organization say they were not aware of any proposed Trump golf resort in Syria and weren't involved in any talks about it.

Ramez Al-Khayyat said, "We are investing in the holding to ensure there is sufficient capital. So it is a joint venture between the two companies, and we are managing it together."

Ivanka visited Albania to meet one of the Khayyat brothers, along with architects and officials, to discuss design ideas.

The Khayyats were also in talks with Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner on a separate multibillion-dollar resort project in Albania.

Mohamad Al-Khayyat said a Trump-branded resort was already part of the plan.

During discussions, Wilson suggested branding the project as a "Trump National Golf Course" to catch the president's attention.

Last summer, Middle Eastern investors pitched an ambitious plan to US Congressman Joe Wilson, including a cruise port, polo club, Bugatti showroom and a world-class golf course.

In 2022, Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner met the Khayyat family in Doha at Carbone Doha during World Cup events.