Driving in Dubai? Here's Your Fueling Playbook
April 25, 2025
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Driving in Dubai, whether you're a resident navigating the daily commute or a tourist exploring the city's wonders, means eventually needing to refuel. Understanding the local fuel landscape isn't just helpful; it's key to keeping your journey smooth and cost-effective 
[13]
[16]. This guide covers everything you need to know about the types of fuel available at the pumps, how those sometimes confusing monthly prices are determined, who the major players are when it comes to petrol stations Dubai, and the convenient ways you can pay 
[4]
[15]
[7]. Knowing this stuff makes driving in Dubai just that little bit easier [13].
Decoding Fuel Types at Dubai Pumps
First things first, let's talk octane. What is it? Simply put, the octane rating measures how resistant fuel is to knocking or pinging during combustion inside your engine 
[19]. Using the right octane level, as recommended by your car's manufacturer, is pretty important for keeping your engine happy and running efficiently 
[17]. You wouldn't want to feed a racehorse regular oats, right? Same idea.
•
Super 98 (ULG 98): This is the high-octane choice, rocking a 98 RON rating [19]
[26][4]
[20]. It's designed for high-performance vehicles – think sports cars, luxury rides, or anything with a turbo or supercharger [15][19]. These engines need fuel that can handle higher pressures without complaining (knocking) [15][19]. Using Super 98 in the right car helps maintain performance and engine health, though it's the priciest petrol option [17][19][20]. Putting it in a standard car? Honestly, it won't give you any extra boost [15][17].
•
Special 95 (ULG 95): With a 95 RON rating, this is the go-to fuel for most modern cars on Dubai's roads [4][15][19]
[12]. It strikes a good balance between performance and cost, making it the most popular choice for everyday driving [19][26]. Most standard passenger vehicles are perfectly happy running on Special 95 [20].
•
E-Plus 91 (ULG 91): This one has the lowest octane rating (91 RON) and is usually meant for vehicles with low-compression engines [4][15][12]. You'll often see it used in commercial fleets or some older car models [15][17][20]. It's the most budget-friendly petrol [20]. Just be careful – using fuel with lower octane than recommended can cause engine knock and potential damage down the line [17].
That "ULG" you see stands for Ultra-Low Sulfur Gasoline, meaning it's a cleaner fuel [19]. Always, always check your car's owner manual or the sticker inside the fuel door to know which fuel type and octane rating your ride needs [17][26]. Using the wrong one isn't worth the potential headache [17].
Understanding Fuel Prices in Dubai: The Monthly Update
Wondering how fuel prices work in Dubai? Unlike many places where prices bounce around daily, the UAE has a regulated system where prices are standardized across the country and set once a month [13][16]. Back in 2015, the government shifted from fixed subsidies to linking local prices more closely with global oil market trends [7]
[10]
[11]. This move was aimed at encouraging smarter fuel use and supporting sustainable goals [7][10]
[14].
There's a dedicated UAE Fuel Price Committee, involving folks from the Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Finance, ADNOC, and ENOC, that makes the call each month [7][10]. They look at average global oil prices and factor in the operational costs for the distribution companies 
[40][7][11][12]. The new prices for Super 98, Special 95, E-Plus 91, and Diesel are usually announced around the 28th of the month and kick in on the 1st of the next month, including 5% VAT [7][12][14].
Heads Up! Example Prices Only: Fuel prices change every month. The prices below are just an example from April 2025 to give you an idea. Always check the current official prices 
[33].
Where to Fill Up: Dubai's Major Fuel Providers
ENOC / EPPCO: Owned by the Government of Dubai, the Emirates National Oil Company (ENOC) Group is the big name in Dubai's fuel scene, often seen alongside its EPPCO brand [4]
[3][19]. With well over 100 stations in Dubai alone, they're hard to miss 
[37]. Their stations are typically modern and offer more than just fuel 
[23][33]. You'll often find ZOOM convenience stores, AutoPro workshops for quick repairs and services, Tasjeel centres for vehicle testing, car washes, and various food options [4]
[8]
[28]
[6][33]. They're also rolling out EV charging and have a loyalty program called 'Yes Rewards' [4][28][8].
ADNOC Distribution: While traditionally dominant in Abu Dhabi, ADNOC Distribution is a major force across the UAE and has a growing number of stations in Dubai [4][13][19]
[32]. They offer the standard fuel types (Super 98, Special 95, E-Plus 91, Diesel) and sometimes Natural Gas for Vehicles (NGV) [4][19]. Look out for their ADNOC Oasis convenience stores, car washes, lube change services, and EV charging points [4][19]
[22]
[30][32]. ADNOC focuses on comprehensive service and tech, including their app and the ADNOC Rewards program, and even offers self-service options at some locations [22][30][4].
Emarat: Emirates General Petroleum Corporation, or Emarat, is another key provider with a solid presence in Dubai [4][13]. Their stations are known for quality fuel and modern setups, offering the usual petrol grades, diesel, and sometimes LPG [4][19]. Alongside fuel, you can expect Freshplus convenience stores, car washes, oil change services, and food outlets [4][19]. Emarat aims for a quality experience and offers fuel cards for businesses [4][19].
Fuel Delivered to You: Introducing CAFU
Imagine getting fuel delivered right to your parked car. Sounds pretty good, right? That's exactly what CAFU offers 
[1][3]. Launched in 2018, this innovative service pioneered on-demand mobile fuel delivery in Dubai, saving drivers the time and hassle of visiting a petrol station [1]
[29]
[38]. Let's be honest, nobody enjoys queuing for fuel 
[2]
[5].
Here's how it works, all through the CAFU app [1][2][3]: You download the app, register your car details (including the fuel type needed – Super 98, Special 95, or Diesel) and add your payment card 
[39][1][2][3]. Then, you simply pin your car's location on the map (it needs to be parked accessibly outdoors within their service area) and choose whether you want fuel delivered ASAP or schedule it for later [39][1][3][2]. A CAFU fuel truck arrives, and a trained "Pilot" handles the refueling contactlessly using certified equipment [2][3][39]. Payment happens automatically via the card linked in your app [1]. They use fuel that meets official UAE standards, so the quality is the same as at the station [2]
[31].
What about the cost? Generally, the fuel price per litre charged by CAFU is the same as the official monthly price set for petrol stations [39][2][3][29]. While they initially offered free standard delivery, their fee structure might now vary depending on how fast you need the fuel or if you opt for a subscription [1][5]
[18][31]. It's best to check the CAFU app for the latest details on any delivery fees or subscription options [1][18]. Besides fuel, CAFU also offers mobile car washes, oil changes, and other car care services through the app [39][29][31].
Paying at the Pump (and on the App)
At ENOC/EPPCO, ADNOC, and Emarat stations, you can usually pay with:
•
Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, and other major cards are widely accepted [39][4]
[41][22]. Attendants often bring portable machines right to your car window [13]. Just a heads-up, sometimes card payments might involve a temporary hold for a slightly larger amount, which gets refunded later – something to keep in mind for small top-ups [13].
Loyalty Pays: Fuel Rewards Programs in Dubai
ENOC 'Yes' Rewards: This app-based program lets you earn points on fuel, items bought at ZOOM stores, services at AutoPro, car washes, Tasjeel visits, and even at partner restaurants [8][6]
[42]. You show your digital card in the Yes app to collect points, which can be redeemed instantly for discounts, vouchers, and other perks [8][6][42]. You can link fuel purchases using a PIN from the app [8][6]. There are even co-branded credit cards that boost your points earning at ENOC/EPPCO 
[34]. Though, some users have mentioned occasional glitches with the app 
[35].
ADNOC Rewards: ADNOC boasts the UAE's first and largest fuel loyalty program [22][30][32]. You earn points on fuel (more points for higher grades like Special 95/Super 98), purchases at ADNOC Oasis stores, car washes, and oil changes [22][30][32]. These points can be turned into discounts on fuel or other items and services [22][30][32]. Signing up is easy via their app or at a station using your Emirates ID 
[36]. You use your Emirates ID or an app QR code to earn points, and paying through the ADNOC Wallet app gets you bonus points [22]. They also have membership tiers (Blue, Silver, Gold, Platinum) based on how much you spend on non-fuel items, offering better benefits as you move up 
[9].
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