Doha, Qatar – QatarEnergy announced updated fuel prices for December 2025 on Sunday, November 30, 2025, reflecting adjustments in the international market. The announcement indicated increases for both Premium and Super grade gasoline, while diesel prices remain stable. These monthly price adjustments impact vehicle owners and businesses across Qatar, influencing transportation and operational costs.
Effective December 1, 2025, Premium-grade petrol will be priced at QR2.00 per litre, and Super-grade petrol will cost QR2.05 per litre. This marks a rise of QR0.05 per litre for both gasoline types compared to November’s prices of QR1.95 and QR2.00 respectively. The price of diesel will stay consistent at QR2.05 per litre throughout December.
Understanding Qatar’s Fuel Price Mechanism
Qatar adopted a system of pegging domestic fuel prices to the global market in September 2017. This move, overseen by the Ministry of Energy and Industry, aimed to reduce subsidies and align local prices with international benchmarks. Consequently, QatarEnergy began releasing monthly price updates, providing transparency for consumers and businesses.
The Impact of Global Oil Markets
Fluctuations in crude oil prices are the primary driver behind these monthly adjustments. Global events, shifts in supply and demand, and geopolitical factors all contribute to volatility in the oil market. The report indicates that recent increases in crude oil prices likely contributed to the higher gasoline prices announced for December.
Additionally, currency exchange rates can play a role. As the Qatari Riyal is pegged to the US Dollar, changes in the Dollar’s value can affect the cost of importing refined petroleum products. This connection to the US Dollar adds another layer of complexity to the pricing mechanism.
The decision to link fuel prices to the international market was not without debate. Prior to the change, Qatar heavily subsidized gasoline and diesel, keeping domestic prices significantly lower than global rates. However, this system was deemed unsustainable in the long term, particularly as the country diversified its economy.
In contrast to gasoline, diesel prices have exhibited more stability in recent months. This is likely due to a combination of factors, including regional demand and supply dynamics, and the seasonal impact on diesel consumption. Businesses relying on diesel for transportation and operations may experience less immediate cost pressure.
The current price structure for petrol prices comes amidst discussions regarding energy transition and sustainability. While Qatar remains a major oil and gas producer, the nation is also investing in renewable energy sources and exploring ways to reduce its carbon footprint. This overarching energy strategy could potentially influence future fuel pricing policies.
Analysts suggest that the consistency of diesel pricing, while a relief for some sectors, could also shift consumer behaviour. A closer price gap between gasoline and diesel could lead to increased demand for diesel vehicles, even as global trends favour electric and hybrid alternatives.
Looking ahead, QatarEnergy is expected to announce the fuel prices for January 2026 towards the end of December 2025. These future prices will heavily depend on the continued trajectory of global oil markets and any unforeseen geopolitical tensions. Monitoring these external factors will be crucial in predicting the next round of adjustments and their broader economic impact on Qatar.
Further information on QatarEnergy’s announcements can be found on their official website: https://www.qatarenergy.qa/ and updates regarding energy policies from the Ministry of Energy and Industry: https://www.moe.gov.qa/en/.
