The UAE has announced its petrol and diesel prices for October 2026, and every major fuel category is set to get more expensive from October 1. This latest hike follows the increases already seen in August and September.
For drivers, this simply means paying more at the pump. Fuel is a regular household expense, so even a small rise in the price per litre adds up over the month, especially for anyone covering long distances on a regular basis.
New UAE Fuel Prices From October 1
The new petrol and diesel prices take effect on Thursday, October 1, 2026. All three petrol categories are up compared to September, and diesel is climbing too.
Here are the new rates:
| Fuel type | October 2026 price | September 2026 price |
|---|---|---|
| Super 98 petrol | Dh4.40 per litre | Dh3.80 per litre |
| Special 95 petrol | Dh4.28 per litre | Dh3.69 per litre |
| E-Plus 91 petrol | Dh4.21 per litre | Dh3.61 per litre |
| Diesel | Dh4.80 per litre | Dh4.30 per litre |
Super 98 sees the steepest jump among the petrol categories, rising by 60 fils per litre. Special 95 goes up by 59 fils, while E Plus 91 climbs by 60 fils per litre.
Diesel isn’t far behind either, rising by 50 fils per litre compared to September.
How Much Have UAE Fuel Prices Increased?
2026 has brought some major swings in UAE fuel prices. Based on the available figures, retail fuel prices have climbed by more than 60 per cent since the Middle East war broke out on February 28.
That rise hasn’t been a straight line, though. Prices actually dropped in July after four months of consecutive increases, only to start climbing again in August and September.
September brought a modest bump following August’s rise, and now October adds another increase across both petrol and diesel.
Why Do UAE Fuel Prices Change Every Month?
The UAE deregulated petrol and diesel prices back in 2015, a move meant to keep local fuel rates more closely aligned with global oil prices and broader market shifts.
Because of this, drivers in the UAE don’t pay a single fixed rate all year. Prices can shift month to month depending on what’s happening in international oil markets and other factors that influence fuel costs.
This monthly system means global energy developments genuinely matter for anyone living and driving in the UAE. Shifts in international supply, demand and regional conditions tend to eventually show up in local pump prices.
Middle East Conflict Continues To Affect Oil Markets
This latest increase comes as tensions in the Middle East continue. The 60 day ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran has now expired.
Washington has signalled it has no plans to extend the agreement, while Tehran has threatened to escalate matters further. All of this keeps adding uncertainty to the regional energy market.
Meanwhile, Houthi attacks on oil infrastructure in the Red Sea have picked up. Any disruption to oil production, transport or supply routes tends to ripple outward and affect energy markets more broadly.
July Was An Exception To The Rising Trend
Fuel prices didn’t climb every single month during this stretch. July actually saw petrol prices drop after four straight months of increases tied to the regional conflict.
That dip gave motorists some breathing room after a long run of price hikes. But by August and September, prices were climbing again.
Now the October rates confirm that upward trend is still very much in motion, keeping fuel costs top of mind for residents and businesses across the UAE.
What The October Fuel Price Increase Means For Motorists
Higher fuel prices hit household budgets directly. People who drive daily tend to feel it more since fuel is a cost that keeps recurring week after week.
For anyone covering long distances for work, school runs, family commitments or other daily needs, the extra cost can add up fast over just a few weeks. How much it actually stings also comes down to the vehicle’s fuel efficiency and how often it needs a refill.
Businesses that rely heavily on road transport feel it too. Companies running delivery vehicles or commercial fleets may see their operating costs climb as a result.
UAE Petrol Prices Remain A Key Monthly Update
The monthly UAE fuel price announcement is one that drivers watch closely, since the new rates decide exactly how much they’ll pay at the pump. October’s prices kick in from the very first day of the month.
Drivers filling up with Super 98 will pay Dh4.40 per litre, Special 95 comes in at Dh4.28 per litre, E Plus 91 is priced at Dh4.21 per litre, and diesel will cost Dh4.80 per litre.
These rates will hold through October unless the monthly pricing system brings another change come November.