Saudi Aramco has officially announced the nationwide rollout of its new 98 octane fuel, specifically engineered for high-performance vehicles and advanced engine technologies. As of early 2026, this premium fuel grade is being introduced at select Aramco stations in major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al-Khobar. This launch marks a significant upgrade in the Kingdom’s fuel infrastructure, catering to the growing number of luxury and sports cars that require higher combustion stability than standard 91 or 95 grades can provide.
What Sets 98 Octane Fuel Apart?
The octane rating of a fuel is a measure of its ability to resist “knocking” or “pinging” during combustion. 98 octane fuel has a higher anti-knock index, allowing it to withstand greater pressure within the cylinders of a high-compression engine.
When fuel ignites prematurely due to high heat and pressure, it causes engine knocking, which can damage internal components over time. By using 98 octane fuel, drivers of turbocharged or naturally aspirated high-performance engines can ensure that ignition happens exactly when the spark plug fires, leading to maximum energy release and smoother power delivery.
Key Benefits for Performance and Luxury Cars
For owners of brands like Porsche, Ferrari, and high-end Mercedes-AMG or BMW M models, the availability of 98 octane fuel offers several technical advantages:
- Enhanced Torque and Power: Allows the engine’s ECU (Electronic Control Unit) to run more aggressive ignition timing, resulting in better acceleration.
- Superior Engine Protection: Dramatically reduces the risk of pre-ignition, extending the lifespan of pistons and valves.
- Optimized Efficiency: While higher octane doesn’t always mean better mileage, it ensures that high-tech engines operate at their peak designed efficiency, potentially improving fuel economy in specific drive cycles.
- Smoother Throttle Response: Drivers will notice a more immediate and refined “pull” when stepping on the pedal.
Market and Consumer Impact in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s automotive landscape is evolving rapidly under Vision 2030, with a massive influx of exotic and high-performance vehicles. The introduction of 98 octane fuel reflects Aramco’s commitment to matching global fuel standards (like Euro 6).
While the 98 octane fuel is priced higher than the 95-grade petrol, the investment is considered essential for enthusiasts who want to protect their high-value automotive assets. Aramco has confirmed that the fuel is fully compatible with existing fuel systems and meets the most stringent international quality specifications.
Regional Significance and Future Outlook
The launch of 98 octane fuel is not just a win for local drivers but also strengthens the UAE-Saudi cross-border travel experience, as high-performance fuel is already widely available in the UAE. By unifying fuel standards across the GCC, Aramco is supporting the regional automotive culture and tourism.
As we move further into 2026, the demand for specialized fuels is expected to rise alongside the growth of hybrid-performance vehicles and downsized turbocharged engines that are highly sensitive to fuel quality.
