May 21, 2026 · By Thomas Bakker
The Significant Difference in Fuel Prices Between Dubai and Europe
Fuel prices in Dubai have been adjusted again for February 2026, and the difference with European prices remains strikingly large. While motorists in many European countries still pay well over €2 per litre, prices in the United Arab Emirates remain significantly lower.
How much cheaper is fuel in Dubai?
Below is a helpful overview of the current prices per litre and the price difference in percentage compared to European averages:
| Fuel Type | UAE Price (AED) | UAE Price (€) | European Price (€) | Difference (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Super 98 | 2.45 | €0.61 | €2.429 | 75% cheaper |
| Special 95 (Euro95) | 2.33 | €0.58 | €2.252 | 74% cheaper |
| E-Plus 91 | 2.26 | €0.56 | n/a | n/a |
| Diesel | n/a | n/a | €2.024 | n/a |
| LPG | n/a | n/a | €1.074 | n/a |
| Premium diesels | n/a | n/a | €2.114 | n/a |
Therefore, prices in Dubai are approximately 70% to 75% lower than in many European countries. This is a significant difference, especially for people who drive daily. The European prices used for comparison are based on average market rates.
What do you pay on average for a full tank in Dubai?
If you drive a compact car with a 51-litre tank, a full tank will cost you approximately 115 to 125 dirhams. That is between €28 and €31 (or roughly £24 to £27). For a sedan with a 62-litre tank, the cost is around 140 to 152 dirhams (€34 to €37, or £29 to £32). SUV drivers with a 74-litre tank pay between 167 and 181 dirhams, which amounts to €41 to €45 (or £35 to £39) per fill-up.
For comparison: average European prices for Euro 95 are around €2.252 per litre. A full 51-litre tank therefore costs about €114 there, while in Dubai it is barely a quarter of that. Diesel and premium fuels in Europe are also around or above €2 per litre.
Why are prices in Dubai so low?
The United Arab Emirates is itself a major oil producer and does not levy the high excise duties and taxes found in many European countries. Furthermore, fuel prices there are more directly linked to the oil price. In Europe, more than half of the pump price often consists of taxes and levies.
The substantial price differences make driving in Dubai considerably cheaper than in many European cities. This is particularly beneficial for people who regularly drive long distances or own an SUV, resulting in significant savings.