Saudi Arabia’s benchmark stock index dropped 2.6%, putting it on track for its worst intraday performance since April 2025, as investors assessed the potential impact of the escalating hostilities, Al Jazeera reported.
The decline followed a statement from the Saudi-led coalition that it had intercepted drones and missiles amid intensifying fighting with the Houthis.
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Shares fell across multiple sectors, with oil giant Saudi Aramco down 1.1%.
Egypt’s blue-chip index also tumbled 2.5%, approaching its lowest level in nearly seven months. All constituents of the index were trading in negative territory.
Market pressure in Egypt came ahead of an expected parliamentary vote on Monday on authorizing the armed forces to support Saudi Arabia, if requested, in its conflict with the Houthis. The vote had initially been scheduled for October 20.
The market declines reflect growing investor concern that the conflict in Yemen could become a broader front in the regional war, adding to uncertainty across the Middle East.
