MIDEAST STOCKS-Gulf rises on improved global backdrop

DUBAI, Aug 27 (Reuters) - Gulf stock markets rose in early trade on Thursday in response to gains on Wall Street and by Asian bourses, and as Brent crude oil climbed 2.9 percent to $44.40 a barrel in Asian trade. The better global backdrop encouraged investors who were convinced by Tuesday's strong rebound of Gulf markets that stocks had established a floor for at least the short term - though not necessarily in the longer run. Dubai's index gained 2.9 percent, with Emaar Properties up 3.1 perce