Fuel prices are rising in the UAE and across other global markets. But fuel price increases don’t instantly change car buying behaviour. Instead, they influence decision-making over time. Should you change your car because of rising fuel prices, or should you wait? The short answer is, Don’t wait. Buy Smart.
AI Quick Summary
Fuel prices are rising in the UAE, leading to temporary spikes in EV demand but a steady, significant increase in hybrid car popularity. The article advises consumers not to delay car purchases, as global factors are expected to further drive up both fuel costs and car prices. Therefore, buying smart and adjusting early is recommended to avoid higher future expenses.
This summary was generated by AI using this article’s content.
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Are UAE EV & Hybrid Sales Increasing Because Of Rising Fuel Prices?
EV demand tends to react quickly during price spikes. In Q2 of 2022, a combination of post-COVID effects, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and demand-supply imbalance led fuel prices to increase globally, and this is how Global markets reacted.
In the UAE, fuel prices increased by over 50%, and EV demand on DubiCars jumped by nearly 189%. However, that surge did not last. EV Demand dropped pretty quickly. A year later, due to extended OPEC+ production cuts, September 2023 saw a 9.5% increase in fuel prices, and EV demand went up by 21.8%, but it dropped immediately in October despite a slight fuel price hike (0.9%). A similar trend is seen in May 2024 as well.
Hybrid demand, on the other hand, shows a different pattern. Growth has been steady and consistent, without sharp spikes or declines. In 2022, demand for EVs was almost 2x the demand for hybrids. By 2025 though, hybrids had taken a clear lead. Hybrid demand has grown over 10x since then, while EV demand has plateaued since mid-2023.
Should You Change Your Car Because Of Rising Fuel Prices?
Don’t wait. Buy smart. The market now seems to have split into three types of buyers.
Type 1: The Opportunity Hunters
These buyers understand timing. They look for value when the market shifts. Inventory levels are still strong, especially in the used car segment. That creates opportunities for buyers who are ready to act. Deals available during the crisis today may not exist if supply tightens or prices increase further. If you’re a Type 1, find thousands of the best cars in the UAE listed for sale on DubiCars.
Type 2: The Cost-Conscious Drivers
This group directly feels the impact of high fuel prices. Monthly expenses now include higher fuel costs along with car purchase installments, insurance, and maintenance. Fuel fill-up costs have increased by approximately 32% month-on-month. That difference becomes significant across multiple refuels.
For larger SUVs, the impact of a full tank fill-up is even more visible:
- Mercedes-AMG G63 (100L): From AED 248 to AED 328
- Toyota Land Cruiser (110L): From AED 272.8 to AED 360.8
- Nissan Patrol (140L): From AED 347.2 to AED 459.2
- Toyota Land Cruiser Pickup (180L): From AED 446.4 to AED 590.4
*Calculated based on Special 95 fuel prices in April 2026*
A Land Cruiser using four full tanks per month now costs over AED 1,440 in fuel alone. That is a sharp increase in a short period, and for many, it’s a big chunk of their monthly income. If you drive a car with a smaller fuel tank, the pinch is a little less painful:
- Suzuki Swift (37L): From AED 91.7 to AED 121.3
- Nissan Sunny (50L): From AED 124 to AED 164
- Toyota Camry (60L): From AED 148.8 to AED 196.8
Type 3: The Unbothered Car Buyers
Fuel is considered a part of the ownership cost, and it doesn’t change their buying decision. However, fuel is not the only cost increasing. Shipping, production, and supply chain pressures are all building. Car prices may increase in the coming months due to various factors influencing the market.
Car manufacturers are facing increased input costs like shipping, and another wave of chip shortages is looming on the horizon. The former will create price hikes, and the latter will create short supply, which in turn will again hike prices. So, if you’re planning to buy a car, now may be the time. Waiting may lead to higher purchase costs.
What Should You Do?
If you think your car is efficient or modern enough, there might not be an immediate need to switch. If you drive a large SUV or a slightly older car and are planning to switch cars soon, you should look at options in the market before possible price changes. Fuel is becoming a larger part of total ownership cost, and that shift should not be ignored.
Here are lists of the best EVs in the UAE & best hybrids in the UAE.
Final Takeaway
Fuel prices in the UAE are rising due to global supply constraints, geopolitical risk, and a pricing system that reacts sooner or later. This is part of a broader global trend, not a local anomaly. In addition, car prices might increase soon. So, don’t wait, buy smart. The smartest buyers are not reacting late. They are adjusting early.
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Fuel prices are rising in the UAE and across other global markets. But fuel price increases don’t instantly change car buying behaviour. Instead, they influence decision-making over time. Should you change your car because of rising fuel prices, or should
