Dubai: UAE motorists are awaiting September fuel prices as global oil markets retreat from recent highs, raising hopes for some relief at the pump.
Brent crude has fallen below $90 a barrel after a decline in recent sessions, helped by expectations of diplomatic progress and a possible improvement in oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz.
The international benchmark is down significantly from its peak, although it remains above levels recorded before the Middle East conflict.
The decline provides a favourable backdrop for UAE fuel prices in September. However, falling Brent does not automatically translate into a reduction in petrol prices.
What a cut could save
UAE motorists currently pay Dh3.60 a litre for Super 98, Dh3.49 for Special 95, Dh3.41 for E-Plus 91 and Dh3.80 for diesel in August.
For a car with a 60‑litre tank, filling up with Special 95 currently costs Dh209.40. If September fuel prices fall by 10 fils to Dh3.39 a litre, the same tank would cost Dh203.40. A saving of Dh6.
A 20‑fils reduction to Dh3.29 would bring the cost down to Dh197.40, saving Dh12 per tank. For an 80‑litre vehicle, the current Special 95 bill is Dh279.20. A 10‑fils cut would save Dh8 while a 20‑fils reduction would save Dh16.
These are illustrations. Do not represent official September fuel prices.
Why Brent does not determine pump prices alone
The UAE has reviewed fuel prices monthly since deregulation in August 2015, linking rates to international market conditions while accounting for other costs.
Petrol prices are influenced by refined‑product benchmarks, transportation and operating costs rather than Brent crude alone. This means a 10 per cent decline in Brent would not necessarily result in a 10 per cent fall in UAE petrol prices.
Could fuel prices return to Dh3?
In September 2025, Special 95 was priced at Dh2.58 a litre compared with Dh3.49 in August 2026.
To return to Dh3, Special 95 would need to fall by 49 fils or around 14 per cent. Super 98 would need to drop 60 fils from Dh3.60. For now, motorists will have to wait for the announcement. The direction of oil prices, refined fuel costs and developments affecting Hormuz will be key factors in determining September fuel prices.