UAE Fuel Prices Rise for May 2026: Super 98 Hits AED 3.66, Diesel Unchanged

The UAE Fuel Price Monitoring Committee has confirmed higher petrol prices for May 2026, with Super 98 rising to AED 3.66 per litre — an increase of AED 0.27 from April's AED 3.39. Diesel remains steady at AED 4.69 per litre.

The new rates take effect from May 1, 2026, and reflect ongoing volatility in global crude oil markets coupled with higher distribution costs. This marks the second consecutive monthly hike, following April's significant increases.

What Are the New Fuel Prices in the UAE for May 2026?

Here's the full breakdown of regulated fuel prices across the UAE for May 2026:

• Super 98: AED 3.66 per litre (up from AED 3.39 in April)
• Special 95: AED 3.55 per litre (up from AED 3.28)
• E-Plus 91: AED 3.48 per litre (up from AED 3.28)
• Diesel: AED 4.69 per litre (unchanged from April)

All three petrol grades saw increases, while diesel prices held flat for the second month running. The AED 0.27 jump for Super 98 and Special 95 is notable — it's the kind of hike that motorists feel immediately at the pump.

How Much More Will You Pay at the Pump?

Here's the thing: filling up now costs significantly more than it did in April.

For a typical 60-litre tank of Super 98, the cost rises from AED 203.40 to AED 219.60 — that's an extra AED 16.20 per fill-up. If you drive a larger SUV with a 90-litre tank, you're looking at an additional AED 24.30 each time you refuel.

Weekly fill-ups compound the impact. For daily commuters, that could mean up to AED 60 more per month depending on vehicle size and driving habits.

Why Did UAE Petrol Prices Go Up in May?

The UAE adjusts fuel prices monthly based on global oil price averages. May's increases are driven by higher international crude benchmarks and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Global oil markets have been volatile through early 2026, with supply concerns keeping upward pressure on refined product costs. The UAE's pricing formula directly mirrors these international movements, passing both reductions and increases to consumers.

Adnoc Distribution, the country's largest fuel retailer, reported a 21% rise in Q1 2026 profit to AED 770.6 million despite the price hikes. Fuel volumes grew 2.4% to 3.82 billion litres, and the company now operates 1,032 fuel stations with plans to add 60-70 more in 2026.

How Does the UAE Compare Regionally?

The UAE leads the GCC in monthly fuel price transparency, adjusting rates at the start of every month. In contrast, Saudi Arabia adjusts prices periodically — and recently raised Premium 98 to SAR 3.83 per litre in April 2026.

Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar maintain different pricing structures, often with heavier subsidies. The UAE's market-linked model means prices here tend to move more frequently in line with global crude trends.

What This Means for Car Buyers

Rising fuel costs inevitably influence purchasing decisions. Motorists are increasingly looking at fuel-efficient models, hybrids, and EVs to offset higher running costs.

For anyone shopping for a new car in the UAE right now, the monthly fuel bill is worth factoring in. A hybrid sedan can save hundreds of dirhams per month compared to a large V6 or V8 SUV, especially with Super 98 pushing past AED 3.60.

Diesel Stays at AED 4.69 — But It's Still High

Diesel remains unchanged at AED 4.69 per litre, which is over a dirham more expensive than Super 98. This continues to be a sore point for commercial fleets, delivery drivers, and heavy vehicle operators who rely on diesel.

That said, steady diesel pricing offers some predictability for logistics companies and transport businesses planning their monthly operating costs.

Looking Ahead: Will Prices Rise Again in June?

The UAE's monthly pricing system means June's rates are unknown until the committee announces them in late May. Much depends on where global oil prices settle in the coming weeks.

If crude prices continue climbing, expect further increases. If they pull back, motorists could see relief at the pumps. For now, the trend is upward — and April and May's consecutive hikes suggest the summer months may bring higher costs.

The Bottom Line

The UAE's May 2026 fuel price announcement delivers a clear message: global energy costs are rising, and local prices are following suit. Super 98 at AED 3.66, Special 95 at AED 3.55, and E-Plus 91 at AED 3.48 all represent meaningful increases from April.

For UAE motorists, it pays to drive efficiently, check tyre pressure regularly (which can improve fuel economy by up to 3%), and consider whether your next car should be a hybrid or EV. With fuel costs trending upward, every litre saved counts.