Major Arab stock markets opened the week with a stronger tone, led by Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Egypt, as investors reacted to hopes of progress towards a U.S.–Iran peace deal and a possible reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul was closed ahead of the Eid holiday, leaving other regional exchanges to set the early direction.
Qatar
Doha opened firmly higher, with the main index rising about 3.2%. Qatar National Bank led the move, gaining around 4.7%, as investors priced in lower geopolitical risk.
Kuwait
Kuwait also opened positively, with the market up around 2%. The move reflected stronger regional risk appetite and relief over possible de-escalation in the Gulf.
Bahrain
Bahrain’s market advanced about 1.7%, supported by the same regional optimism. The gain was notable because smaller Gulf markets are often more sensitive to liquidity shifts.
Egypt
Cairo’s EGX30 rose about 1.5%, helped by a 3.4% gain in Commercial International Bank. Egypt’s opening showed that the improved mood extended beyond the Gulf into wider Arab markets.
Saudi Arabia and the UAE
Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul was closed ahead of Eid, while UAE markets had ended Friday higher, with Dubai up 0.6% and Abu Dhabi up 0.2%. Investors will watch both markets closely when full regional trading resumes.
A cautious rebound
The opening tone was positive, but not risk-free. Energy prices, the Strait of Hormuz, shipping routes and U.S.–Iran diplomacy remain central to market direction. For now, Arab equities are reflecting relief rather than certainty.
Newshub Editorial in Asia – 25 May 2026
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