UAE motorists brace for higher fuel costs as May 2026 petrol and diesel prices jump up to 10% / Image: File
Motorists across the UAE are set to pay more at the pump again in May 2026 after authorities announced another petrol price increase, extending a months-long upward trend driven by global oil market instability, geopolitical tensions and supply concerns. The latest revision follows sharp increases already seen in April, with fuel prices now reaching some of the highest levels recorded in recent years.The UAE’s Fuel Price Committee revised rates for all major petrol categories, while diesel prices remained elevated. From May 1, Super 98 petrol will cost Dh3.66 per litre, up from Dh3.39 in April. Special 95 rises to Dh3.55 from Dh3.28, while E-Plus 91 increases to Dh3.48 per litre. Diesel remains at Dh4.69 per litre.The increase means motorists will spend noticeably more every time they refuel. Filling a compact car with Super 98 will now cost around Dh186.66, while SUV owners could pay over Dh270 for a full tank depending on vehicle size and fuel type.
UAE fuel prices for May 2026
The May revision marks the third consecutive increase in fuel prices this year, following earlier hikes in March and April.
| Fuel Grade | April 2026 Price (Per Litre) | May 2026 Price (Per Litre) | Change (Per Litre) |
| Super 98 | Dh3.39 | Dh3.66 | +Dh0.27 |
| Special 95 | Dh3.28 | Dh3.55 | +Dh0.27 |
| E-Plus 91 | Dh3.20 | Dh3.48 | +Dh0.28 |
| Diesel | Dh4.69 | Dh4.69 | No Change |
Just weeks earlier, April prices had already surged dramatically after global crude prices spiked during escalating regional tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States. In April, Super 98 jumped from Dh2.59 to Dh3.39 per litre in one of the steepest month-on-month increases in recent memory.Before that, March prices had already reversed two months of declines, signalling the start of a renewed upward trend in UAE fuel costs.
How much will you pay for a full tank?
The latest increase will immediately impact daily commuting costs for residents and businesses alike.According to estimates published after the announcement:
- Compact cars will cost roughly Dh13 to Dh20 more to fill compared to April
- Sedan owners will see fuel bills rise by nearly Dh17 on average
- SUVs could cost about Dh20 more per tank depending on fuel category
Businesses dependent on transportation and logistics may also feel the pressure if elevated fuel prices continue over the coming months. Delivery services, freight operators and ride-hailing sectors are expected to face rising operational costs as fuel expenses remain high.Still, despite the increases, fuel prices in the UAE remain lower than in many global markets because of comparatively lower taxes and the country’s strong domestic energy infrastructure.
Why are UAE fuel prices increasing?
The latest hikes are closely tied to movements in international crude oil markets. Since the UAE deregulated petrol prices in 2015, monthly retail fuel prices have been linked directly to global oil benchmarks, refining costs and supply-demand conditions.Oil markets have remained volatile throughout 2026 due to ongoing geopolitical instability in the Middle East. Analysts point to tensions involving Iran, fears surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, and disruptions to regional energy infrastructure as key reasons behind higher crude prices.At one stage during March, Brent crude reportedly moved close to the $115-per-barrel mark as fears grew over supply disruptions across major oil shipping routes. Around one-fifth of global oil trade passes through the Strait of Hormuz, making any instability in the region a major concern for energy markets worldwide.Analysts also say strong demand from Asian markets and tighter global supply conditions have kept upward pressure on prices. Even though the UAE announced its exit from OPEC and OPEC+ from May 1, experts believe domestic fuel prices will still largely follow global crude trends rather than local production decisions alone. Go to Source
