On August 15, 2025, Dubai’s main equities index rose for the second consecutive session, lifted by robust corporate earnings and optimism over a US-Russia summit in Alaska, which may bring stability to the Ukraine conflict. The index gained 0.5%, thanks to strength in the materials, financial, and industrial sectors. Key movers included Salik, which jumped 3.1% after reporting a nearly 50% increase, and a 34–36% revenue upgrade; Emirates Central Cooling Systems (Empower) rose 1.2%; and Gulf Navigation Holding surged 3.4% with its fourth straight profitable quarter. Reuters
At the same time, Abu Dhabi’s market lagged, with declines triggered by softer performance in banking stocks as oil prices slid 0.8% to $66.34 per barrel. This drop stemmed from prospects of eased sanctions on Russia—potentially increasing oil supply and affecting energy-linked equities. Reuters
Why It Matters
- Investor Sentiment: Dubai’s rally signals growing investor confidence backed by strong earnings and favorable diplomacy signals.
- Oil Volatility Impact: Abu Dhabi remains exposed due to its reliance on oil price stability—a dip in energy prices undercuts market performance.
- Global Influences: Markets are highly sensitive to international developments—especially US-Russia talks and sanctions affecting the Gulf region.
