By Staff Reporter
Dubai, August 26, 2026 — UAE motorists could see fuel prices remain stable or decline slightly in September as international oil prices retreat from recent highs.
Brent crude fell as much as 2.7 per cent to around $88 a barrel on Tuesday, marking a second consecutive decline after rising in 13 of the previous 14 trading sessions. The drop has improved expectations that the UAE could avoid another significant increase in pump prices next month.
The UAE Fuel Price Committee reviews petrol and diesel prices at the end of each month, taking into account international oil and refined fuel market trends. This means a single day’s movement in crude prices does not determine the price motorists pay at UAE fuel stations.
August prices remain elevated
For August, UAE motorists are paying Dh3.60 per litre for Super 98, Dh3.49 for Special 95, Dh3.41 for E-Plus 91 and Dh3.80 for diesel.
These prices are considerably higher than those recorded in February, when Super 98 was Dh2.45, Special 95 Dh2.33, E-Plus 91 Dh2.27 and diesel Dh2.72.
The recent decline in crude prices has therefore created a more favourable outlook for September, although the final decision will depend on the average international prices recorded throughout August.
What could happen in September?
If Brent remains between $85 and $90 a barrel for the rest of August, UAE fuel prices could remain broadly stable or edge lower.
A further decline towards $80-$85 would strengthen the possibility of a more noticeable reduction, while a rebound above $95 could limit the chances of cheaper fuel.
Oil markets remain highly volatile, however. Brent moved between roughly $72 and $102 a barrel last month as markets reacted to changing expectations over US-Iran relations, regional tensions and global supply.
OPEC+ adds to downward pressure
Additional oil supply could also weigh on prices. OPEC+ members, including Saudi Arabia and Russia, have agreed to increase production by 188,000 barrels per day from September.
If the additional supply reaches the market while global demand remains steady, it could place further downward pressure on crude prices.
Geopolitical developments remain another major factor. Despite fresh US sanctions targeting Iran, oil prices have recently moved lower, showing that traders are balancing geopolitical risks against expectations of increased supply and changing demand.
September outlook
For UAE motorists, the latest market movements offer some relief after months of higher fuel costs.
Stable to moderately lower fuel prices currently appear more likely than another sharp increase, provided Brent remains below $90 or declines further before the end of August.
However, the final September rates will only become clear when the UAE Fuel Price Committee completes its monthly review. A sudden rise in oil prices before the end of August could change the outlook.
For now, motorists have reason to hope that the recent fall in global oil prices could translate into some relief at UAE fuel stations in September.
