UAE petrol prices may rise for fourth consecutive month in June amid elevated oil prices
Motorists in the UAE could face another increase in fuel costs next month, as the country's fuel price committee prepares to announce June 2026 petrol prices later this week. The expected increase comes amid sustained strength in global crude oil prices, which remained above $100 per barrel throughout much of May.
The anticipated adjustment would mark the fourth consecutive monthly increase in UAE fuel prices, following a sharp rise in global oil markets driven by geopolitical tensions and supply concerns linked to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz after the recent US-Israel-Iran conflict.
Global oil prices remain elevated
According to market data, Brent crude averaged around $106 per barrel during May, compared to approximately $99 per barrel in April. By the weekend, Brent crude had closed at $103.5 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) settled at $96.6 per barrel.
The sustained increase in crude oil prices has been largely attributed to concerns over supply disruptions in one of the world's most critical energy shipping routes.
UAE fuel prices have surged since February
Fuel prices in the UAE have already increased significantly over the past three months.
Current May fuel prices are:
- Super 98: Dh3.66 per litre
- Special 95: Dh3.55 per litre
- E-Plus 91: Dh3.48 per litre
Since February, when Super 98 was priced at Dh2.45 per litre, petrol costs have risen by approximately 50 per cent, adding Dh1.21 per litre to motorists' fuel expenses.
The increases have placed additional pressure on household budgets, particularly for commuters and families who rely heavily on private transportation.
Potential relief if geopolitical tensions ease
Despite expectations of higher fuel prices in June, analysts suggest oil markets could experience downward pressure if diplomatic progress is made between the United States and Iran.
According to market analysts, any agreement that enables Iranian oil exports to return more freely to global markets could increase supply and reduce the geopolitical risk premium currently supporting higher crude prices.
Industry experts estimate that oil prices could initially decline by 4 to 8 per cent following an official announcement of a peace agreement or easing of sanctions, potentially providing some relief for consumers and energy-importing economies.
Fuel prices remain below 2022 record highs
While current fuel prices are approaching elevated levels, they remain below the UAE's all-time highs recorded in July 2022 following the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
At that time:
- Super 98 reached Dh4.63 per litre
- Special 95 climbed to Dh4.52 per litre
Whether June prices move closer to those record levels will depend largely on developments in global oil markets and regional geopolitical conditions over the coming days.
