Major Arab stock markets opened cautiously on Thursday as investors reacted to rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, volatile oil prices and growing uncertainty around regional security and global energy supply.
Gulf markets mixed as oil prices surge
Stock markets across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) began the trading day with mixed performance as investors balanced the potential economic benefits of higher oil prices against the risks of regional instability.
In Saudi Arabia, the Tadawul All Share Index opened slightly higher, supported by gains in energy and petrochemical companies. Oil producers and service firms benefited from the sharp rise in crude prices amid fears of disruption to shipping and energy infrastructure in the Gulf.
However, banking and real estate stocks traded more cautiously as investors evaluated the broader economic implications of escalating regional tensions. Saudi Arabia remains heavily linked to global energy markets, and prolonged instability could influence investment flows and economic planning.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi markets show cautious optimism
The Dubai Financial Market opened marginally higher in early trading, with gains led by logistics, transport and energy-related companies. Investors appeared to be positioning for higher regional trade activity as energy prices rise.
In neighbouring Abu Dhabi, the ADX General Index opened broadly stable, supported by energy companies and sovereign-linked investment groups. The emirate’s large hydrocarbon reserves provide a degree of insulation from oil price shocks, although regional security concerns remain a key factor for investors.
Market analysts said investors are monitoring developments in the Gulf closely, particularly any threats to critical shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.
Qatar and Kuwait track global risk sentiment
Qatar’s stock exchange opened slightly lower as investors adopted a cautious stance amid rising geopolitical uncertainty. Banking and financial services stocks led early declines, reflecting broader concerns about capital flows and regional investment sentiment.
In Kuwait, the Premier Market Index opened largely flat as traders balanced gains in energy companies against weakness in consumer and financial sectors.
Across the Arab region, trading volumes were moderate, with many investors preferring to wait for clearer signals about the trajectory of the conflict before making large portfolio adjustments.
Energy markets remain central driver
Oil prices remain the dominant influence on Arab market sentiment. The Middle East produces roughly a third of the world’s crude oil, and any disruption to regional supply routes can have significant global implications.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which a large portion of global oil shipments pass, remains a focal point of investor concern. Any prolonged disruption could send energy prices significantly higher, benefiting producers while simultaneously raising inflation risks globally.
For Gulf economies, higher oil prices typically support government revenues, sovereign wealth funds and infrastructure spending. However, regional instability can also weigh on investor confidence and foreign investment flows.
As trading progresses through Thursday, investors across Arab markets will remain closely focused on developments in regional security, global oil prices and diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing further escalation.
Newshub Editorial in Asia – March 13, 2026
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