A new revision of fuel prices in the UAE is imminent as the nation’s Fuel Price Committee moves to revise the prices of petrol in May 2026 according to international oil price movements. The revision will be made during what could be described as one of the most turbulent times in energy markets, due to geopolitical unrest in the Middle East region. As crude oil prices have remained erratic throughout April, another hike is expected, or else fuel prices will remain high.
Oil Markets Driven by Conflict and Supply Disruptions
The most important cause for the fluctuation in the price of fuel this month is attributed to the sharp increase in crude oil prices across the world. Crude oil, especially Brent crude oil, was trading at approximately $99 per barrel in April, against $97 per barrel in March. Fuel prices have consistently been around the high nineties range, often touching the hundred mark.
One of the major causes for such an increase in fuel prices can be attributed to the interruption of oil supplies on a global scale due to conflicts between the US, Israel, and Iran. Things got even worse when a critical oil route was sealed shut; it was the Strait of Hormuz. Such an action resulted in about 10 to 13 million barrels per day being withdrawn from the total daily global production, which is 12 percent of the world’s total oil production.
April Price Hike Sets the Stage
Fuel costs in the UAE saw a sudden surge after witnessing an increase in fuel rates due to the soaring oil markets in March. The petrol rate was increased by about Dh0.80 per litre, which constitutes nearly a 30% increase, one of the highest increases recorded in the last few years.
In April 2026, the fuel cost per litre was:
| Super 98 | Dh3.39 |
| Special 95 | Dh3.28 |
| E-Plus | Dh3.20 |
This increase clearly portrays the direct impact of rising crude prices and proves how closely UAE fuel rates are closely related to global oil benchmarks.
Ceasefire Hopes vs Market Uncertainty
However, even though there have been instances of short-lived moments of relief after the extension of the ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran, the oil markets continue to remain extremely sensitive to any changes happening around the world.
The oil prices would drop at times of calmness, but soon the prices shot back up again past the mark of $100 per barrel, owing to the continued military threats.
What to Expect for May 2026
In light of the observed crude price levels in April and the prevailing uncertainty, it is predicted that UAE fuel prices in May may either:
- Increase to a small extent, or
- Stay at high levels close to April levels.
This will be officially confirmed by the Fuel Price Committee on April 30. Although the level of increase might be lower than witnessed during April, the overall trend in the international oil market makes any decline highly unlikely.
Historical Context: Not Yet at Peak Levels
Fuel prices have increased recently, but they are still relatively lower compared to their previous peak in 2022 due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The prices at that point hit new records in the UAE when Super 98 reached Dh4.63 per litre, crossing Dh4 per litre in the process.
But what makes this period different from other crises in the past is that its effects have been felt widely throughout the Middle East, affecting both oil transport and the production countries themselves.
Outlook: A Market on Edge
With the month of May upon us, the UAE is facing an increasingly complicated picture with regard to its energy sector, with factors such as war, shortages, and turbulent markets playing a prominent role. The continued volatility surrounding the Strait of Hormuz is one area of particular concern, as any escalation may drive oil prices upwards.
Indeed, with the price announcement imminent, all eyes will be on how this plays out in light of recent events.
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