The new year is approaching fast, and alongside the celebrations, Dubai residents are keeping a close eye on petrol prices. Every month, the UAE Fuel Price Committee announces the rates for petrol and diesel, and January 2026 is no exception. After a slight rise in December, there’s hope that prices could ease as the new year begins.
The UAE federal government, through the Emirates News Agency, releases the new rates on the last day of each month. For January 2026, the announcement is expected on December 31, with the new prices taking effect on January 1.
Current Petrol Prices in Dubai
As of December 2025, the petrol and diesel rates in Dubai are as follows:
Super 98 Petrol: Dhs2.70 per litre
Super 95 Petrol: Dhs2.58 per litre
E-Plus 91 Petrol: Dhs2.51 per litre
Diesel: Dhs2.85 per litre
These prices reflect a small increase from November, which saw slightly lower rates across all fuel types.
How UAE Petrol Prices Changed in 2025
Looking back over the past year, petrol and diesel prices in Dubai have fluctuated month to month. Here’s a quick overview:
December: Super 98 – Dhs2.70, Super 95 – Dhs2.58, E-Plus 91 – Dhs2.51, Diesel – Dhs2.85
November: Super 98 – Dhs2.63, Super 95 – Dhs2.51, E-Plus 91 – Dhs2.44, Diesel – Dhs2.67
October: Super 98 – Dhs2.77, Super 95 – Dhs2.66, E-Plus 91 – Dhs2.58, Diesel – Dhs2.71
September: Super 98 – Dhs2.70, Super 95 – Dhs2.58, E-Plus 91 – Dhs2.51, Diesel – Dhs2.66
August: Super 98 – Dhs2.69, Super 95 – Dhs2.57, E-Plus 91 – Dhs2.50, Diesel – Dhs2.78
July: Super 98 – Dhs2.70, Super 95 – Dhs2.58, E-Plus 91 – Dhs2.51, Diesel – Dhs2.63
June: Super 98 – Dhs2.58, Super 95 – Dhs2.47, E-Plus 91 – Dhs2.39, Diesel – Dhs2.45
May: Super 98 – Dhs2.58, Super 95 – Dhs2.47, E-Plus 91 – Dhs2.39, Diesel – Dhs2.52
April: Super 98 – Dhs2.57, Super 95 – Dhs2.46, E-Plus 91 – Dhs2.38, Diesel – Dhs2.63
March: Super 98 – Dhs2.73, Super 95 – Dhs2.61, E-Plus 91 – Dhs2.51, Diesel – Dhs2.77
February: Super 98 – Dhs2.74, Super 95 – Dhs2.63, E-Plus 91 – Dhs2.55, Diesel – Dhs2.82
January: Super 98 – Dhs2.61, Super 95 – Dhs2.50, E-Plus 91 – Dhs2.43, Diesel – Dhs2.68
This monthly fluctuation is a reflection of global oil trends, local supply, and government policies that aim to balance affordability and sustainability.
Factors Influencing Petrol Prices in Dubai
Several key factors influence petrol prices in the UAE each month:
Global Oil Prices: Dubai’s fuel costs are closely linked to international oil markets. Any major shifts in crude prices often result in changes to local petrol rates.
Supply and Demand: Seasonal demand spikes or reduced production can influence rates. During holiday seasons, higher travel can push prices slightly higher.
Government Policies: The UAE Fuel Price Committee adjusts prices to ensure fairness, economic stability, and market alignment.
Exchange Rates: The value of the US dollar, in which oil is traded, can also impact local fuel prices.
What Could Happen in January 2026
After a modest increase in December, many experts and drivers are optimistic that petrol and diesel prices in Dubai may drop in January. A slight reduction could ease the cost of living for commuters and support retail and transport businesses as the new year begins.
Predicting exact prices is challenging, but looking at past trends, small adjustments are common at the start of the year. Residents can expect the announcement from the UAE Fuel Price Committee on December 31, which will clarify the rates for all fuel types.
Preparing for the New Fuel Rates
For drivers in Dubai, staying updated on monthly petrol prices is essential. Fuel cards, apps, and local news sources provide real-time updates on petrol costs. Budgeting for potential increases or decreases can help households and businesses plan effectively.
Final Thoughts
As Dubai gears up for 2026, petrol prices remain an important topic for residents. While December saw a slight increase, early indicators suggest that January could bring relief at the pumps. The official announcement at the end of the month will provide clarity, and Dubai drivers will finally know whether fuel prices will drop as the new year begins.
Keeping an eye on monthly trends and understanding the factors influencing fuel rates can help residents make informed decisions about driving and budgeting for the year ahead.
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