New UAE Fuel Prices: May Petrol Price Increase Announced

With a petrol price increase, new fuel prices for May 2026 are AED 3.48 for E-Plus 91, AED 3.55 for Special 95, and AED 3.66 for Super 98. The price of diesel in the UAE is currently AED 4.69 per litre. Petrol prices have increased for May 2026 by up to AED 0.28, while diesel remains the same. These new prices have arrived just as the UAE exited OPEC in a move that’s expected to reduce and stabilise fuel prices in the mid to long-term. Petrol and diesel prices change every month in the UAE. New fuel prices in the UAE are expected to arrive in June 2026.

*All prices mentioned above are per litre

Petrol Diesel Price Changes In The UAE

• In December of 2025, petrol prices increased by AED 0.07, and diesel prices increased by AED 0.18.
• For January 2026, petrol prices have decreased by up to AED 0.17, while diesel dropped by AED 0.30.
• In February 2026, petrol prices decreased further by AED 0.09 while diesel has dropped by AED 0.03.
• March 2026 saw petrol prices increase by up to AED 0.15 while diesel increased by AED 0.20.
• In April 2026, petrol prices have increased by AED 0.80, and diesel has shot up by AED 1.97. This comes as crude oil prices have increased because of the ongoing geopolitical situation
• Now in May 2026, fuel prices have touched a minimum of AED 3.48 for the first time since August 2022.

What Were The Petrol & Diesel Prices In The UAE For The Last Six Months?

What Is The Fuel Fill-Up Cost In The UAE?

With the petrol price increasing, the per-kilometre running costs will also increase. For a 40-litre fuel tank, one would have to shell out AED 11.2 more. For a 120-litre fuel tank, consumers will have to pay AED 33.6 more for a full tank compared to April 2026. Intrigued by fuel tank sizes? Here’s a list of the cars with the biggest fuel tanks and cars with the smallest fuel tanks.

How Is Petrol Price Decided?

Before 2015, the government highly subsidised fuel prices. This protected prices from fluctuating. However, in September 2015, it was liberalised to align with global oil prices. Now, with global crude oil prices increasing due to the ongoing crisis, fuel prices too have gone up. The Fuel Price Committee decides fuel prices in the UAE, and we can expect more changes over the next few months.

What Is The Best Type Of Fuel For Your Car?

The best fuel type for your vehicle depends on the manufacturer’s recommendation and your driving needs. Always check your vehicle’s manual or consult with the dealer to ensure you’re using the appropriate fuel for optimal performance and longevity.

In the UAE, petrol is available in different octane levels:  

• E-Plus 91: Priced the lowest, this fuel is suitable for cars with minimal performance traits and is more commute-oriented. 
• Special 95: Suitable for most standard vehicles, offering a great balance of performance and price.  
• Super 98: Ideal for high-performance engines that require higher octane levels to prevent knocking. This grade of petrol is also the most expensive.
• Diesel: Standard-issue diesel that can be used in everything from large trucks and buses to medium-sized commercial vehicles, SUVs, and pickup trucks with diesel engines.

What Are The Best Practices To Save Fuel?

Efficient fuel use isn’t just good for your wallet; it also benefits the environment. Here are some tips to save fuel:  

• Drive Smoothly: Sudden and hard acceleration and braking consume more fuel. Maintain a steady speed and anticipate traffic conditions to avoid unnecessary stops.  
• Maintain Proper Tyre Pressure: Under-inflated tyres increase resistance, requiring more fuel. Check and maintain the recommended tire pressure regularly.  
• Avoid Excess Idling: Keeping the engine running while stationary wastes fuel. Turn off the engine if you’re waiting for an extended period.  
• Lighten Your Load: Excess weight in your car forces the engine to work harder, therefore consuming more fuel. Remove unnecessary items from your vehicle and avoid carrying heavy loads unless necessary.  
• Use Cruise Control: On highways, using cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, improving fuel efficiency.  
• Keep Up With Maintenance: Regular servicing, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and engine tuning, ensures your car operates efficiently.  

How To Plan Refueling Schedules To Save Money?

Strategic refueling can help you maximize savings, especially in a dynamic market like the UAE. Here’s how:  

• Track Monthly Price Announcements: UAE fuel prices are updated at the start of each month and are announced on the last day of the previous month. Stay informed and refuel before a price hike takes effect. Refer to our fuel price prediction article for more details.
• Fill Up During Off-Peak Hours: Avoid refueling during peak times (Commute hours or weekends) to avoid queues and more idle time.
• Use Fuel Rewards Programs: Many fuel stations, such as ENOC or ADNOC, offer rewards or cashback on fuel purchases. Enroll in these programs to save money. Read our best fuel stations in the UAE article for more details.
• Plan Long Trips Ahead: Refuel at cost-effective stations before starting a long journey, especially if you’re heading to areas with fewer fuel options or higher prices.

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