Rising global oil prices will likely make fuel more expensive in the UAE. People who drive are getting ready for an increase when the April rates are announced at the end of the month.
The authorities will reveal the petrol and diesel prices on March 31. Early signs suggest an increase because crude oil prices have surged due to geopolitical tensions. Over the three weeks Brent crude has jumped from below $73 per barrel to above $112.
This increase is because of instability in the Middle East, which affects energy infrastructure and shipping routes. The Strait of Hormuz is a route with about a fifth of the world’s oil supply passing through it daily. Any disruption to this route affects supply and pricing.
In the past similar increases in oil prices have led to fuel prices in the UAE. During the 2022 surge due to the Russia-Ukraine war petrol prices crossed Dh4 per litre for the time. This shows how closely domestic rates follow benchmarks.
In March 2026 UAE fuel prices had already gone up a bit. Super 98 petrol was priced at Dh2.59 per litre, Special 95 at Dh2.48. Diesel at Dh2.72.. The current pace of oil price growth suggests that April could see a bigger increase.
Analysts say that the average Brent price for March is much higher than February’s levels. This points to sustained pressure on fuel prices. Many countries have already started raising fuel prices in response to the surge in oil prices.
For people living in the UAE this means preparing for transportation costs. If geopolitical tensions persist motorists will soon feel the impact of market volatility at the pump.
The final figures will depend on oil price movements in the coming days. But the message is clear: unless markets stabilise fuel costs, in the UAE are likely to go up.
