Motorists across the UAE are waking up to a significantly more expensive commute this April. Following a period of relatively soft energy costs in early 2026, fuel prices have undergone a sharp correction, with petrol and diesel rates jumping between 31% and 72% month-on-month.
The hike is a direct reflection of a turbulent March in the global oil markets, where supply disruptions pushed crude benchmarks to near-record levels.
The New Rates: April 2026
Effective April 1, the UAE Fuel Price Committee has adjusted rates as follows:
| Fuel Type | April Price (per litre) | March Price | % Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Super 98 | Dh3.39 | Dh2.59 | +30.9% |
| Special 95 | Dh3.28 | Dh2.48 | +32.3% |
| E-Plus 91 | Dh3.20 | Dh2.40 | +33.3% |
| Diesel | Dh4.69 | Dh2.72 | +72.4% |
While petrol users are paying roughly 80 fils more per litre, the most dramatic impact is felt in the logistics and transport sectors, where diesel has surged by nearly Dh2 per litre.
The "Full Tank" Impact
For the average resident, these percentages translate into a noticeable hit to the monthly budget. Depending on your vehicle and driving frequency, the cost of a single fill-up has risen substantially:
- Compact Sedan (60L tank): Now costs Dh196 (up from Dh148) — a Dh48 increase.
- Large SUV/4x4 (80L tank): Now costs Dh262 (up from Dh198) — a Dh64 increase.
For a driver refueling twice a week, this adjustment adds an extra Dh380 to Dh500 to their monthly expenses.
Why the Sudden Spike?
The UAE’s liberalized pricing system means that local pumps act as a mirror to the global stage. In March, oil markets faced a "perfect storm":
- Strait of Hormuz Disruptions: Supply shocks in this critical maritime artery handle 20% of the world's oil sent jitters through the supply chain.
- Brent Crude Surge: Prices peaked near $120 per barrel in March before stabilizing in the $110–$115 range.
- Global Refined Product Scarcity: Diesel prices have skyrocketed globally, with markets seeing extreme increases.
Note: Because the UAE reviews prices monthly based on international averages, motorists benefit when global prices drop but must absorb costs quickly when markets tighten.
A Global Perspective
Despite the steep hike, UAE fuel remains mid-range on a global scale. While nations with heavy subsidies see slower adjustments, the UAE remains significantly more affordable than European markets, where high taxation pushes prices much further. For comparison, petrol in the US recently crossed the $5 per gallon threshold.
Looking Ahead
Is this the new normal? Not necessarily. Analysts suggest that April’s rise marks a "rebound phase" after a downward trend throughout 2025. While oil markets remain volatile, any sustained easing in crude oil costs could bring relief as early as the May price revision.
