Saudi Aramco’s recent move to introduce 98-octane gasoline has sparked noticeable interest, especially among owners of sports cars and high-performance vehicles across Saudi Arabia. The company confirmed that the new fuel grade will start reaching stations in January 2026, a timing that reflects how the local market has been steadily shifting toward more powerful and performance-focused cars.
According to details published by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), Aramco explained that the decision came after reviewing domestic market needs in coordination with the Ministry of Energy. Rather than replacing existing fuel options, 98-octane gasoline is being added as an extra choice for a specific segment of drivers whose cars are designed to run on higher-octane fuel.
The rollout will begin in Riyadh, Jeddah, and the Dammam metropolitan area, along with the highways linking these cities. These locations naturally host the highest concentration of vehicles that actually require higher octane ratings, making them the most practical starting point. Any wider expansion will depend on how strong the demand proves to be once the fuel becomes available.
Aramco also made it clear that 98-octane fuel is aimed squarely at sports cars and high-performance engines that operate under greater pressure, higher temperatures, and more demanding driving conditions. Using the correct octane level helps these engines deliver smooth performance while maintaining long-term reliability. Pricing details will be announced through Aramco’s official channels at launch, with regular reviews in line with existing fuel pricing mechanisms.
What exactly is 98-octane gasoline?
Simply put, 98-octane gasoline is better at resisting engine knock—uncontrolled or premature combustion inside the engine. The higher octane rating allows the fuel to handle more heat and pressure before igniting, which is crucial for modern engines with high compression ratios or turbochargers.
Who typically uses 98-octane—and why?
This type of fuel is usually recommended for high-end sports cars, supercars, and certain performance-focused sedans. Manufacturers such as Ferrari and other European brands engineer their engines to perform best on high-octane fuel, ensuring sharper throttle response, consistent power delivery, and reduced mechanical stress over time.
Seen in this context, the arrival of 98-octane gasoline says as much about the Saudi car market as it does about fuel itself. Growing demand for this grade points to the increasing number of sports cars and supercars on the Kingdom’s roads—particularly in major cities—where high-performance vehicles are no longer a rare sight, but an increasingly familiar part of everyday traffic.
