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GCC Trading Volume Rises 19.5% to $618bn

By Markets Desk · 2026-09-13 · 1 min read
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Illustration: Tradingbird

Trading volume in the Gulf Cooperation Council region increased significantly in 2025, reaching a total value of 618 billion dollars despite a decline in market capitalization.

Trading volume in the Gulf Cooperation Council region rose 19.5% in 2025. The total value of shares traded reached 618 billion dollars. This activity was driven by 401.7 billion shares changing hands. The figures come from GCC-Stat data for the year.

The general composite index ended the year at 165.2 points. This represents a 3.8% drop from the closing level in 2024. Total market capitalization fell to 3.9 trillion dollars. That is a 6.2% decrease compared to the previous year.

Market Capitalization Declined Sharply

Valuations across the seven GCC exchanges moved lower in 2025. The aggregate market cap stood at 3.9 trillion dollars. This marks a significant contraction from prior levels. The decline occurred even as transaction counts grew.

Investors traded more frequently despite lower asset values. The volume increase suggests higher turnover rates. Market participation remained strong in the region. These trends reflect shifting investor behavior in 2025.

Regulatory Integration Accelerated Progress

GCC markets adopted new rules for investment funds. Passporting regulations took effect as a unified framework. This allows funds to operate across borders more easily. The move supports regional financial integration.

Authorities also updated corporate governance standards. New rules cover electronic securities issuance. Sustainability disclosure requirements became stricter. These changes aim to improve market transparency.

Listed Companies Reached 779 Total

The region hosted 779 listed companies in 2025. Gulf citizens could trade shares of 756 firms. This accounts for 97% of all listings. Four exchanges offered full access to domestic investors.

Bahrain Bourse allowed 100% local trading access. The Muscat Stock Exchange followed the same policy. Qatar Stock Exchange also enabled full participation. Boursa Kuwait maintained this open access model.

Based on reporting by IndexBox, compiled by the Tradingbird desk.

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