The Dubai Financial Market General Index experienced a significant increase, gaining as much as 4.4% to reach its highest level since October 2014. This surge was primarily driven by Emaar Properties, the largest listed real estate firm in the United Arab Emirates, which saw its shares rise to the highest level in nearly 17 years following an increase in dividend payouts. Analysts noted that the Dubai government's substantial shareholding in Emaar likely influenced the decision to boost dividends, contributing to the overall rally in Dubai's stock market. The strong performance of Emaar has positioned it as a key player in elevating the Dubai market to a near-decade high, despite a mixed performance across other Gulf shares.