Motorists across the UAE will see higher fuel costs this month, after the UAE Fuel Price Committee announced updated petrol rates for May 2026.

Under the new pricing, Super 98 petrol will cost Dh3.66 per litre, up from Dh3.39 in April, while Special 95 rises to Dh3.55 per litre from Dh3.28. E-Plus petrol will increase to Dh3.48 per litre, compared to Dh3.20 last month.

Diesel prices remain unchanged, offering some stability for transport and logistics sectors.

The revised rates come into effect from May 1, in line with the UAE’s monthly fuel price adjustment system, which reflects fluctuations in global oil markets.

What this hike means

For many UAE residents, the increase may impact daily commuting costs and monthly budgets, particularly for those relying on personal vehicles. As temperatures rise and road travel remains a key part of daily life, fuel prices continue to be a closely watched expense.

Over a full tank, the increase may add up, nudging monthly fuel budgets higher. Ride-hailing fares and delivery costs could also see a marginal impact.

While diesel remaining unchanged offers some relief for logistics and transport, many expats may look to adjust travel habits, such as carpooling or combining trips, to manage expenses more efficiently.

The UAE is strengthening its crackdown on financial crime, with the National Committee for Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism and Proliferation Financing approving a new set of measures to boost transparency and enforcement.

Announced after its latest meeting, chaired by Khaled Mohamed Balama of the Central Bank of the UAE, the updates aim to strengthen how authorities detect, investigate, and prevent illicit financial activity.

A key highlight is a new national guide on financial intelligence and money laundering investigations, which improves coordination between agencies and introduces updated procedures for tracking and recovering assets, including those linked to virtual assets.

The committee also approved risk assessments across financial institutions, virtual asset providers, and non-financial sectors, enabling more targeted enforcement and oversight.

Stricter compliance for businesses

For businesses in the UAE, the new measures mean stricter compliance requirements but also a more stable and trusted operating environment.

Companies, especially in finance, real estate, and emerging sectors like virtual assets, will need to strengthen due diligence, improve internal controls, and align with updated risk assessments and reporting standards set in coordination with the Central Bank of the UAE.

While this may increase operational oversight and compliance costs in the short term, it enhances transparency, reduces exposure to financial crime risks, and reinforces the UAE’s reputation as a secure global business hub, ultimately boosting investor confidence and long-term growth opportunities.

Additional updates include revised national risk assessments on proliferation financing and non-profit organisations, reinforcing a risk-based approach to regulation.

While largely behind the scenes, these changes play a key role in maintaining the UAE’s position as a secure and trusted global financial hub, something that directly impacts businesses, investors, and the wider expat community.

Officials say the measures mark a more advanced phase in the country’s regulatory framework, with stronger coordination and improved readiness to address evolving financial risks.

Motorists in Abu Dhabi’s Mohamed Bin Zayed City will soon need to factor in parking fees, as paid parking is set to roll out in additional commercial sectors starting May 6.

Under the new system, drivers will pay Dh2 per hour for standard parking in sectors ME9 and ME12, as part of ongoing efforts to improve traffic flow and accessibility in busy neighbourhood hubs.

The initiative is being implemented by Q Mobility under the supervision of the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), reflecting a broader push to modernise urban mobility across the capital.

For many UAE residents and expats living in the area, the change marks a shift from previously free parking to a more structured system designed to reduce congestion and limit random parking, particularly around commercial and service outlets.

The rollout will cover more than 10,000 parking spaces, including 3,219 spaces in ME9 and 6,986 spaces in ME12, along with designated spots for People of Determination.

To make the transition easier, motorists can pay through multiple digital channels, including apps like Darb and TAMM, as well as SMS and on-site payment machines, offering flexibility for residents who rely on different payment methods.

Authorities say the system is designed to support local businesses by improving access to shops and services, making it easier for customers to find available spaces.