MIDEAST STOCKS-Most Gulf markets fall due to US tariff worries

Feb 18 (Reuters) - Most major stock markets in the Gulf fell in early trade on Tuesday, as ongoing global uncertainty surrounding U.S. President Donald Trump's plans for tariffs on imports keep investors on edge.

Since taking office last month, Trump has imposed a 10% tariff on imports from China, and announced plans for 25% tariffs on goods from Mexico and non-energy imports from Canada, although these have been delayed.

Additionally, he has set a date for 25% tariffs on imported steel and aluminium, and is considering reciprocal tariffs on countries that tax U.S. imports.

Dubai's main share index .DFMGI fell 0.5%, with toll operator Salik Company SALIK.DU declining 2.6%, following four sessions of gains.

Last week, Salik reported a net profit of 1.16 billion dirhams ($315.84 million) for 2024, up from 1.10 billion dirhams a year earlier.

In Abu Dhabi, the index .FTFADGI inched down 0.1%.

Saudi Arabia's benchmark index .TASI gained 0.3%, helped by a 3.1% rise in the country's biggest lender, Saudi National Bank 1180.SE.

Among other gainers, Mobile Telecommunications Company 7030.SE surged 7%. Despite reporting a fall in annual profit, the telecom operator maintained its full-year cash dividend of 0.50 riyals per share.

Meanwhile, oil producer group OPEC+ is considering pushing back a series of monthly supply increases due to begin in April despite calls from Trump to lower prices, Bloomberg News reported on Monday, citing delegates. O/R

The Qatari index .QSI slipped 0.5%, with the Gulf's biggest lender Qatar National Bank QNBK.QA losing 0.4% and petrochemical maker Industries Qatar IQCD.QA retreating 0.8%.

($1 = 3.6728 UAE dirham)