Fuel prices in the UAE are preparing for a possible rise in April as the price of crude oil approaches $115 / Image: File
Fuel prices in the UAE are expected to rise for April 2026, following a sharp rise in global crude oil markets with prices rising to nearly $115 per barrel in recent weeks.The monthly review, overseen by the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, links local fuel prices directly to international standards.
As a result, continued strength in oil markets during March is likely to push petrol and diesel prices higher when the new prices are announced.Since the UAE liberalized fuel prices in 2015, the adjustments have closely mirrored global trends, making international crude oil movements the single biggest factor influencing what motorists pay at the pump.
Previous fuel prices in the UAE
Looking at the latest data, fuel prices in the UAE have already seen a gradual rise:
- Super 98 gasoline: approx. 3.03 dirhams per litre
- Special Gasoline 95: Approx. 2.92 dirhams per litre
- E-Plus 91 Gasoline: Approx. 2.85 dirhams per litre
- Diesel: about 3.16 dirhams per litre
March prices saw a slight increase compared to February, reflecting the early stages of the rise in global oil prices.
Analysts say the April adjustment could extend this trend further if crude oil prices remain high during the price cutting period.
Global crude is approaching $115
The rise in oil prices is due to tightening supply conditions and stable global demand. Production discipline among major exporters, particularly within the OPEC+ group, has kept production under control even as consumption rebounds in major economies.Meanwhile, geopolitical tensions in critical energy corridors have added a layer of uncertainty, supporting higher prices.
Strong demand from Asian markets and post-winter recovery trends have further tightened the balance between supply and consumption.With Brent crude trading near the $115 level, the cost of refining and distributing the fuel increases, which ultimately feeds into retail prices in markets such as the UAE.
How does the UAE determine monthly fuel prices?
Fuel prices in the UAE are determined through a regulated mechanism that takes into account the average global oil price over the course of the month, along with refining costs and distribution margins.
The Fuel Price Committee in the United Arab Emirates announces the revised prices at the end of each month, with the new prices taking effect from the first day of the following month.This system ensures transparency but also means that domestic fuel prices respond quickly to shifts in global oil markets, whether up or down.The increase in fuel prices in April may lead to a gradual rise in the population’s daily expenses. Higher petrol and diesel prices usually translate into increased commuting costs and can also lead to higher transportation and delivery fees.Businesses that rely heavily on logistics may feel the pressure more acutely, especially if high fuel costs persist over several months. However, despite these increases, fuel prices in the UAE remain relatively lower than in many global markets due to minimal taxes and a strong local supply infrastructure.
Final April prices
Final fuel prices for April 2026 will depend on the performance of crude oil in the final days of March. If prices continue to hover around or above $110 to $115 per barrel, fuel prices in the UAE are very likely to rise.However, any late correction in global oil markets could mitigate the magnitude of the rally. For now, the broader trend suggests that motorists should prepare for slightly higher prices at the pump in April.
