The international spotlight will shine on South Florida in 2026 as Trump National Doral has been officially selected to host the prestigious G20 Summit. The announcement, confirmed late last week by White House and State Department officials, instantly positioned Miami among the world’s top diplomatic stages, with leaders from the globe’s 20 largest economies expected to arrive at the luxury resort for a week of high-level meetings and negotiations. This marks the first time Miami has ever been chosen to host the G20, a milestone for a city already recognized for its global ties, its Latin American influence, and its rapid rise as an economic and cultural powerhouse.
Preparations for the summit are already underway, with local officials bracing for what is expected to be one of the largest security operations in Miami’s history. The influx of presidents, prime ministers, foreign ministers, and delegations numbering in the thousands will require coordinated efforts from the U.S. Secret Service, Miami police, Florida law enforcement agencies, and federal security partners. Authorities say the logistics will rival past Super Bowls and Formula 1 races hosted in the city, but at a scale far more complex due to the sensitive nature of the event.
Trump National Doral, a sprawling golf resort property featuring over 600 hotel rooms, meeting spaces, and multiple championship courses, was chosen after months of quiet consideration by U.S. officials. The resort’s ability to be fully secured, combined with its extensive facilities, gave it an advantage over other proposed sites across the country. Although questions about potential conflicts of interest were raised, officials emphasized that the venue met the necessary international standards for security, capacity, and accessibility, making it a strong candidate for the summit.
For Miami, the event represents more than just diplomatic prestige—it is also expected to deliver a massive economic boost. Hotels throughout the city are already preparing for unprecedented demand, with luxury accommodations in Brickell, Miami Beach, and Coral Gables anticipated to be booked solid. Restaurants, transportation companies, and small businesses across the region are also preparing for the wave of international visitors and media that will descend on the city. Tourism experts estimate that the G20 Summit could inject hundreds of millions of dollars into Miami’s economy, not only through direct spending but also through the long-term exposure that comes from global news coverage.
Local leaders celebrated the announcement, framing it as proof of Miami’s evolution into a true world-class city. “This is a defining moment for Miami,” said one city official. “The G20 is where the world comes together to tackle its biggest challenges, and to host it here solidifies our position as a global hub.” Business groups echoed the sentiment, pointing to Miami’s growing role as a financial center that connects North and South America with Europe and Asia.
The G20 Summit itself is more than just a diplomatic gathering—it is the primary forum where the world’s largest economies discuss and coordinate policies on global trade, climate change, security, and development. Past summits have seen landmark agreements on climate action, responses to financial crises, and coordinated strategies for public health emergencies. With 2026 expected to be a year of heightened geopolitical tension, observers believe the Miami summit could prove especially pivotal.
However, the choice of Trump National Doral has not come without controversy. Critics argue that holding the summit at a property owned by a former U.S. president presents ethical concerns and could overshadow the diplomatic goals of the event. Others worry about protests, as past G20 summits have drawn large demonstrations from activists opposing globalization, climate inaction, and inequality. Miami officials say they are preparing for significant demonstrations, with designated areas expected to be set aside for public protest while maintaining tight security perimeters.
Beyond the politics, residents of Miami are bracing for the disruptions that will accompany such a massive international event. Road closures, restricted zones, and heightened security checkpoints are expected to affect daily life in and around Doral, as well as in areas where delegates and heads of state will be lodged. Transportation officials are working on plans to minimize disruptions while ensuring safe and efficient movement for the delegations.
Despite the challenges, anticipation is high. For many Miamians, the idea of their city hosting presidents and prime ministers from around the globe is a source of pride. Local universities are preparing academic panels, cultural institutions are planning special exhibits, and civic leaders see the summit as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase Miami’s diversity and vibrancy to the world.
As the countdown to 2026 begins, Trump National Doral is set to undergo upgrades to meet international standards for media coverage, digital infrastructure, and security. Construction crews are expected to begin renovations in the coming months to ensure the resort can accommodate the massive influx of leaders, staff, and journalists. Miami International Airport will also play a central role, with special protocols for receiving dozens of heads of state and coordinating military-level air traffic security.
In the coming months, more details will emerge about the summit’s agenda, the leaders expected to attend, and the issues that will dominate discussions. But for now, Miami finds itself preparing for a moment that will etch the city into the history of international diplomacy.
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