DUBAI  - Here are some factors that may affect Middle East stock markets on Monday. Reuters has not verified the press reports and does not vouch for their accuracy.

INTERNATIONAL/REGIONAL

* GLOBAL MARKETS-Asian shares rise as U.S. stimulus plans offset virus woes 

* Oil prices fall for 2nd session as COVID-19 lockdown concerns cast pall over demand prospects 

* MIDEAST STOCKS-Most Gulf markets in red; Kuwait up on banks 

* PRECIOUS-Gold ticks up on weaker dollar, U.S. stimulus hopes 

* U.S. will work with Israel to build on regional normalization agreements -Biden national security adviser 

* Saudi Arabia expects 'excellent relations' with Biden administration 

* Saudi sovereign fund to double assets in next five years to $1.07 trln - Crown Prince 

* Israel bans international flights to curb coronavirus spread 

* IMF says Iraq has requested emergency assistance, talks ongoing 

* UAE cabinet approves setting up embassy in Tel Aviv  

* Yemen aid groups call on U.S. to revoke Houthi terrorism designation  

EGYPT

* Egypt begins COVID-19 vaccination drive with frontline medical staff  

* Suez Canal Bank Reduces Stake In Mohandes Insurance To 3.064%  

* Air Arabia Resumes Flights Between Alexandria And Doha  

 

SAUDI ARABIA

* Saudi Arabia names Fahad al-Mubarak as new central bank governor 

* Saudi Oil Exports Value Down 39.8% In November - Official Data 

* Saudi's Almarai Q4 Profit Rises  

 

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

* Tabreed Signs Agreement With Twofour54 To Cool Yas Creative Hub In Yas Bay 

* UAE's FAB Signs Service Level Agreement With Muscat Clearing And Depository 

 

KUWAIT

* Kuwait's emir reappoints PM to form new cabinet after parliament standoff 

* Kuwait limits overseas airport arrivals after COVID variant detected 

* Central Bank Of Kuwait Allows Banks To Distribute 2020 Dividends 

 

BAHRAIN

* Gulf Air seeks Airbus, Boeing aircraft delays, acting CEO says 

(Compiled by Dubai newsroom) ((dubai.newsroom@thomsonreuters.com))