Dubai: Fuel prices in the United Arab Emirates for January 2026 are expected to remain close to December levels, as global oil prices ended the year slightly higher but showed no strong upward momentum.
Since the UAE deregulated fuel prices in 2015, monthly adjustments have followed movements in international oil markets. Prices for January will be officially announced in the final days of December.
In December, petrol and diesel prices recorded moderate increases. Super 98 rose from Dh2.63 to Dh2.70 per litre. Special 95 increased from Dh2.51 to Dh2.58, while E-Plus 91 moved from Dh2.44 to Dh2.51. Diesel saw the biggest rise, climbing from Dh2.67 to Dh2.85 per litre.
Oil prices edged higher toward the end of December, supported by stronger demand signals from the US and ongoing geopolitical tensions. Supply concerns linked to delays in Venezuelan oil exports and the continuing Russia–Ukraine conflict also contributed to the increase.
At the same time, concerns over excess supply remain. Recent data showed rising US crude inventories, and analysts expect global stockpiles to grow through 2026, limiting the chances of a sharp rise in oil prices.
Based on current trends, January fuel prices in the UAE are likely to stay broadly unchanged from December. A small increase remains possible if supply disruptions worsen, while a slight reduction could occur if oil inventories rise more than expected or demand softens after the holiday season.
Official January fuel prices will be confirmed before the start of the new month.
