Major stock markets in the Gulf, including those in Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Qatar, saw gains in early trading on Wednesday, ahead of the release of US inflation data.
The data is expected to provide insights into the Federal Reserve's plans for interest rate hikes, which could have a direct impact on Gulf currencies that are pegged to the US dollar.
Saudi Arabia's benchmark index rose by 0.7%, with Riyad Bank and Saudi National Bank among the top performers.
Meanwhile, Dubai's main share index hit its highest level since late 2015, driven by a rise in developer Emaar Properties.
In other news, Saudi Arabia signed a Treaty of Amity and Cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
