Oman has positioned itself as the standout performer among Gulf stock markets, maintaining relative strength despite a broader regional environment shaped by ongoing economic disruption and geopolitical tensions.
While regional equities have generally faced turbulent trading conditions this year, Omani markets have displayed remarkable resilience. Market analysts note that regional equities have managed to avoid severe plunges even as broader macroeconomic indicators flash warning signs. Notably, the International Monetary Fund has forecast a 4.8% contraction in the Gulf’s gross domestic product for the year 2026, suggesting that stronger-than-expected corporate earnings have effectively underpinned equity valuations across the region.
Within the relatively thin universe of regional equities, Saudi Aramco remains the dominant financial titan. The oil giant accounted for approximately 72% of the combined earnings of companies listed on the Tadawul during the first half of the year. Higher crude oil prices significantly bolstered the corporation’s financial performance, lifting its net profit by 33%.
Furthermore, the escalation of Houthi attacks targeting the kingdom has kept oil prices elevated, positioning Aramco for potentially another robust financial quarter when corporate results are officially announced on Nov. 3.
