UAE stock markets continued their upward move at the start of trading on Thursday, extending gains for a third straight session as investor sentiment remained positive and buying interest stayed focused on major listed companies.

The Dubai Financial Market delivered the stronger performance, with its main index rising 1.1% to 5,931.96 points, marking its highest level in around five weeks. The advance reflected steady support from heavyweight stocks, particularly in the real estate, banking, and transport sectors.

Among the notable gainers in Dubai, Emaar Properties rose 2.26% to AED 12.66, while Air Arabia added 0.6% to AED 5.11. Gulf Navigation posted one of the day’s sharpest increases, jumping 9.6% to AED 2.27.

Banking stocks also contributed to the market’s momentum. Emirates NBD climbed 0.7% to AED 30.98, while Dubai Islamic Bank advanced 1% to AED 7.57. Talabat also moved higher, gaining 0.8% to AED 0.844.

In Abu Dhabi, the market also remained in positive territory. The ADX General Index rose 0.3% to 9,923.68 points, supported by moderate gains across a range of blue-chip stocks.

Among the stocks moving higher, Aldar Properties gained 0.8% to AED 8.52, while Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank rose 1.12% to AED 23.34. Alpha Dhabi added 0.7% to AED 7.40, ADNOC Gas edged up 0.3% to AED 3.29, and First Abu Dhabi Bank advanced 0.45% to AED 18.48.