Aramco to introduce 98-octane gasoline for sports cars in Saudi Arabia in 2026
In a strategic move aimed at enhancing energy options available in the local market and meeting the needs of a growing segment of consumers, Saudi Aramco has officially announced the launch of its 98-octane gasoline product. This announcement comes in response to market demands from the Ministry of Energy, and the new product will be available at service stations starting in January 2026.
Offer details and target areas
The energy giant clarified that the introduction of 98-octane gasoline will not negatively impact existing products available in the market (91 and 95 octane), but rather will represent a valuable addition to diversify the product portfolio. Aramco has developed a detailed phased distribution plan, with the product being launched initially in major cities with high rates of luxury and sports vehicle use: Riyadh, Jeddah, and the Dammam metropolitan area , in addition to service stations located on the highways connecting these cities. The company indicated that expansion to other cities will be contingent upon future studies of demand levels and market needs.
What is 98 octane gasoline and who is it intended for?
98-octane gasoline is characterized by its high octane rating, making it the ideal fuel for high-performance engines and luxury sports cars. Scientifically, a high octane rating increases the fuel's resistance to premature combustion (or knocking) within the engine's combustion chambers, allowing engines to operate at higher compression ratios and generate more power with excellent efficiency. Providing this type of fuel is essential to keep pace with technological advancements in the modern automotive industry, which demands precise fuel specifications to maintain engine life and efficiency.
Context of development in the Saudi energy sector
This decision comes within a broader context reflecting the ongoing development of the energy sector in Saudi Arabia, and is in line with the goals of Vision 2030, which focuses on improving quality of life and providing world-class services. Diversifying fuel products enhances the Kingdom's position as a global energy hub, not only for export but also for developing its domestic market to rival advanced global markets that offer multiple fuel options (such as Euro 5 and others) to suit all types of vehicles.
Pricing and monitoring mechanism
Regarding the financial aspect, Aramco confirmed that the price of 98-octane gasoline will be officially announced on the company's retail fuel sales page on its website, coinciding with the actual launch date in January 2026. The company emphasized that the price will be subject to periodic review in accordance with the Kingdom's approved procedures for governing energy and water product pricing adjustments, thus ensuring transparency and fairness in pricing.
