Most Gulf markets muted as Iran tensions keep investors wary
BENGALURU: Most Gulf stock markets closed subdued on Tuesday as investors remained cautious after the U.S. ruled out extending a temporary ceasefire agreement and an Iranian official said Tehran would shift to a “fully offensive” military posture. Qatar’s benchmark index fell 0.5%, extending losses for a second consecutive session to close at 9,848 points, its lowest level in more than a year. Qatar National Bank, the region’s largest lender, declined 0.7%, while telecommunications operator Ooredoo dropped 1.5%. Saudi Arabia’s benchmark index ended flat, as gains in materials, energy and healthcare stocks offset declines elsewhere. Saudi National Bank, the kingdom’s largest lender by assets, slipped 0.5%, while Jarir Marketing fell 4.3%. SABIC Agri-Nutrients Co gained 2.4%, while Saudi Arabian Mining Co rose 1.9% after the companies signed a memorandum of understanding to explore opportunities across the fertilisers and integrated agri-nutrients value chain. Dubai’s benchmark index was little changed, with losses in communications, utilities and industrial shares offset by gains in other sectors. Emirates Integrated Telecommunications, known as du, fell 3.1%, while Emirates NBD ros
Business Recorder | discovered by Business Recorder | Aug 18, 2026, 5:36 PM
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