Yes, using the air conditioner (AC) significantly increases fuel consumption for petrol cars in the UAE, especially during the intense summer months. For example, in a high-traffic environment like the Dubai-Sharjah commute at 45°C, a typical family sedan like a 2023 Toyota Camry using Super 95 can experience a fuel consumption increase from around 13.5 km/l to approximately 11.2 km/l, representing an extra cost of about AED 1,200 to AED 1,800 per year for an average driver covering 25,000 km. The UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure notes that auxiliary loads, primarily the AC, are a major factor in urban fuel economy. This impact is more pronounced in older, larger vehicles like a GCC-spec Nissan Patrol, where the AC compressor places a heavier load on the engine. Frugal drivers should initially ventilate the cabin by opening windows for a minute before engaging the AC and then use the recirculation mode on highways like Sheikh Zayed Road to cool already-chilled air more efficiently. A key strategy is to service the AC system annually before summer, as a poorly maintained system with low refrigerant levels can increase fuel use by up to 15%. The RTA Dubai's vehicle inspection guidelines emphasize the importance of a functional AC system not just for comfort but for overall vehicle efficiency and safety during extreme heat.
