The Complete Guide to Fuel Types in the UAE: 91, 95, 98 and Beyond – Which Fuel Should You Use?

Abu Dhabi: Filling your car wth the right fuel is very important. It is not a matter of money, but the engine's health also depends on it. Generally, the UAE fuel pumps have options like the E-Plus 91, Special 95, Super 98, and other fuel types like Diesel, LPG, and kerosene are also available. In this blog, we will help you choose the right fuel to maximize efficiency and performance for your vehicle: 

91 Octane Gasoline (E-Plus 91)

Also known as the E-Plus 91. It is the cheapest petrol option available in the UAE. Generally, it is used in older cars or small economy vehicles, and using it in the modern turbo or performance engine could result in lower power output, reduced fuel efficiency, and a higher risk of engine knocking in hot weather. 

So if you are using an older Japanese car and budget cars can run safely on 91 octane, then there is no major benefit in using higher octane fuel. 

95 Octane Gasoline (Special 95)

The 95 Octane Gasoline, also known as the Special 95, is the most common and popular choice for everyday driving in the UAE. It offers a good balance of performance, efficiency, and price, making it perfect for Most modern sedans and SUVs from brands like Toyota, Nissan, and Hyundai. The other key advantage it has is the large-scale availability, making it reliable for daily commutes on highways like Sheikh Zayed Road without the extra cost and hassle of finding a fuel station. 

98 Octane Gasoline (Super Plus)

98 octane is the premium/high-octane fuel, the most expensive option made for high-performance engines. It is used in luxury vehicles, sports cars, and turbocharged engines. It allows to push these cars to the maximum power and smoothness, especially during fast acceleration or in hot UAE weather. Using it in the Normal cars does not offer any significant power advantages. Manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche recommend 98 octane for optimal performance.

Diesel

Diesel is different from Gasoline and is used only in vehicles built with diesel engines. It offers better fuel efficiency and torque because of its higher energy density. Majorly, it is used in pickup trucks ( RAM or Toyota Hilux ), delivery vehicles, buses, and construction equipment for long-distance hauls or towing. 

LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas)

LPG is an alternative fuel made from propane and butane gases. It’s cheaper than petrol and produces less pollution/smoke. It is only used in some old taxis and converted private cars to save on daily driving. It could be refilled at the specific pumps, often on the side at ADNOC stations. 

Kerosene

Kerosene is not used in cars, so you would not find it in regular petrol pumps. It’s mainly for jet aircraft (Jet A-1 is a refined kerosene), home heating, camping stoves, or some industrial machines and generators. So never put kerosene in a normal car or diesel vehicle, as it can damage the engine. It is only available at some fuel suppliers but not at regular petrol pumps. 

Choosing the Right Fuel in the UAE

Here is a quick look at the different fuel types with their UAE names and vehicles they are used in: 

Fuel Type	UAE Name	Used In
91 Octane Gasoline	E-Plus 91	Older cars, small economy vehicles
95 Octane Gasoline	Special 95	Most modern sedans & SUVs
98 Octane Gasoline	Super 98	Luxury cars, sports cars, turbo engines
Diesel	Diesel	Pickup trucks, buses, delivery vans, heavy SUVs
LPG	LPG / Autogas	Converted taxis, fleet vehicles
Kerosene	Kerosene / Jet Fuel Base	Aircraft, heaters, generators

Choosing the right fuel for your vehicle is crucial to maintaining the longevity of the engine and enjoying the best possible performance. To find the right fuel type, look inside the fuel filler flap or check the owner's manual, and fill the tank with the recommended octane rating or fuel type.

Also Read: UAE's 30% Petrol Hike Is Reshaping Car Buying: What Drivers Need to Know