UAE drivers may want to fill up their tanks sooner rather than later, as fuel prices are expected to edge higher in March following two straight months of cuts. The change comes as global oil markets react to renewed geopolitical tensions in the Gulf, which have pushed crude prices back up.
Since the UAE deregulated fuel prices in 2015, monthly rates have been set by the Fuel Price Committee based on the previous month’s average global oil benchmarks. For February 2026, motorists enjoyed a break at the pump:
- Super 98: Dh2.45 per litre
- Special 95: Dh2.33 per litre
- E-Plus 91: Dh2.26 per litre
- Diesel: Dh2.52 per litre
These were all down from January’s prices, continuing a downward trend that began after last year’s peak in the autumn. But that relief may be short-lived.
Why are oil prices on the rise again?
The global benchmark, Brent crude, has bounced back toward the $71–$72 per barrel range. This climb isn’t due to a shortage of supply—analysts say the market is actually somewhat oversupplied—but rather to mounting geopolitical risks. Heightened tensions between the US and Iran have added what experts call a “risk premium” of about $10 a barrel, according to Daniel Yergin of S&P Global.
The big worry? Any disruption around the Strait of Hormuz—a vital corridor for Gulf oil exports—could send prices soaring even higher.
What can UAE motorists expect in March?
Because prices are set using average oil levels from the previous month, the recent uptick in crude suggests that petrol and diesel rates will likely see a moderate increase in March. Diesel, in particular, may be more affected due to its sensitivity to global shipping and trading conditions.
Still, unless geopolitical tensions escalate further and keep oil prices elevated, a dramatic jump at the pump isn’t expected. The official rates for March will be announced at the end of February, but for now, drivers should be ready for a possible small increase after February’s brief price relief.
