Dubai: Fuel prices in the UAE for February 2026 are expected to be announced soon. After petrol and diesel rates dropped in January, global crude oil prices have started to trend upward again toward the end of the month. This rebound in oil markets could directly impact fuel costs at the pump for motorists.
Current Fuel Price Scenario in the UAE
In January 2026, the UAE reduced fuel prices across all grades, offering temporary relief to drivers. Super 98 is priced at Dh2.53 per litre, Special 95 at Dh2.42, E-Plus 91 at Dh2.34, while diesel stands at Dh2.55 per litre. These rates marked a clear decline compared to December, easing short-term fuel expenses at the start of the year.
How Fuel Prices Are Determined
UAE petrol and diesel prices are reviewed monthly by the Fuel Price Committee, based on average global crude oil benchmarks and refined fuel production costs from the previous month. When international oil prices rise, fuel prices typically follow due to higher refining and distribution costs. Similarly, when oil markets soften, pump prices often see a downward adjustment.
Market Trends and Price Movement
Historical data shows that fuel prices steadily increased through mid-2025, peaked around October, eased slightly in December, and then dropped sharply in January. Over the past year, UAE motorists have experienced multiple price hikes and reductions, highlighting how closely local fuel rates are tied to fluctuations in global oil supply, demand, and refining margins.
What’s Happening in the Global Oil Market
Global oil prices have shown upward momentum since early January. Brent crude has been trading in the range of $63–$66 per barrel, while US crude prices have moved closer to $59–$61 per barrel, reflecting tighter short-term market conditions.
The recent price increase is mainly linked to:
- Renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East affecting supply stability,
- Uncertainty around crude exports from countries such as Venezuela, and
- Temporary production disruptions across parts of the global oil supply chain.
However, latest data indicates that oil inventories—particularly in the United States—are building up. Rising stockpiles suggest adequate global supply, which helps cap aggressive price increases and limits extreme volatility in crude and refined fuel markets.
What February Fuel Prices May Look Like
Crude oil is currently trading at higher levels than when January fuel prices were calculated, making a modest upward adjustment in February more likely than another price reduction.
That said, there are no strong indicators of a sharp price spike. Global crude supply remains balanced, and recent inventory data confirms that oil availability is still comfortable worldwide. As a result, any increase in UAE pump prices is expected to be measured rather than significant.
Diesel prices may stay relatively firmer than petrol, as current market data shows tighter global diesel supply compared to gasoline. Another consecutive price cut appears unlikely unless crude oil prices soften again before the fuel pricing review period ends.
What this Means for UAE Motorists
Fuel prices in February are more likely to see a slight upward adjustment rather than another decline, based on current oil market trends.
Sharp price increases are not expected under the present supply and demand conditions. If crude oil prices stabilize, pump rates could remain close to January levels.
Fuel price outlooks are developed using prevailing market data, global crude movements, and refining cost trends. However, final UAE petrol and diesel prices are determined by the UAE Fuel Price Committee and may vary depending on international oil market movements leading up to the official review.
The official fuel prices for February are expected to be announced on January 31, when the Fuel Price Committee releases the updated rate schedule.
Editor-at-Large
A passionate writer in the lubricant industry, Awais Iqbal has been covering oils, greases, and industrial fluids since the start of his career. At 25, he’s already written for blogs, catalogs, and brand guides across the UAE. Awais’s insights help companies connect with their audience, and his clear, helpful writing style is trusted by brands in the region.
