Fuel availability and shortages

Ulaanbaatar is experiencing fuel shortages. The government has implemented a rationing system based on license plate numbers (even/odd days) and a limit of 50,000 MNT (approx. $14) per transaction. Fuel sales in canisters are prohibited. This measure aims to ensure 'rational distribution of fuel reserves' due to a heavy reliance on imported fuel from Russia. Efforts are underway to secure fuel from South Korea and Singapore.

Traveling the route from Ulaangom to Darkhan via Uliastai experienced no significant issues. While there were queues for gasoline, diesel fuel was readily available. Refueling was primarily done at 'Shunkhlai' stations (marked with a bird logo), with prices ranging from 4750 to 5600 MNT per liter. Ulaangom had no gasoline, only diesel. The city of Altai (the administrative center of Govi-Altai province) also had no reported gasoline shortages.

In Khovd, gasoline (92 octane) is available at 3400 MNT per liter. There are manageable queues at gas stations, and a limit of 50 liters per vehicle is allowed, including for canisters.

Fuel availability in Mongolia is inconsistent and can be critical. Reports indicate widespread fuel shortages in some areas, including along the highway to Kharkhorin. * **Western Mongolia (Khovd, Ulgii)**: Fuel is generally available without purchasing limits, but may not be dispensed into jerry cans. * **Other areas (e.g., Darkhan)**: Fuel deliveries typically occur around 9 AM. Queues are common, and fuel may run out by midday. * Travelers are advised to refuel whenever possible and not to rely on finding fuel at specific locations, especially in remote areas.

Diesel fuel (DT) is generally available at gas stations on the route from Darkhan to Ulaanbaatar. Prices may vary, but the fuel is typically accessible for purchase.

Currently, Gasgoyl and Shunkhlai gas stations in Ulaanbaatar are experiencing long queues. Travelers should be aware of these potential delays when planning to refuel at these specific locations.

Fuel availability in Mongolia can be inconsistent, particularly in remote areas. In August 2026, there were reports of long queues and purchase limits at gas stations due to supply issues from Russia. Local resellers may offer fuel in canisters at premium prices (up to 10000 MNT/liter). Negotiating with stations servicing state or tourist vehicles might allow for full tank refills. Ulaanbaatar generally has better fuel availability, with stations operating at night and without limits, though it is still advisable to monitor fuel levels and potentially carry extra fuel.

Fuel availability in remote Mongolian regions like Sevrei or Shinezhinst can be unreliable, with potential shortages. In contrast, Ulaanbaatar typically has better fuel supply, with large fuel shipments arriving (e.g., 50 tankers of AI-92 from China in Zamiin-Uud in August 2026). Fuel prices range significantly, from official rates (e.g., 4100 MNT for 92 Euro) to inflated prices by resellers (up to 10000 MNT/liter).

As of August 1, 2026, gasoline is scarce in Ulaanbaatar. Some stations near Gandan Monastery have queues exceeding 200 vehicles, with people waiting overnight. Some limited availability exists with higher prices, but queues are still significant. Diesel is generally available. In Uliastai, gasoline is reported to be unavailable, with only diesel accessible.

In Ulgii, Mongolia, fuel availability can be an issue. Users report queues at gas stations and occasional closures due to lack of fuel. It is advisable to fill up whenever possible. Diesel is reported to be available at approximately 100 Russian Rubles per liter.

There is a severe fuel shortage in Mongolia (especially 92 and 95 octane). Key regions like Ulaan-Gom, Hovd, and Uliastai experience long queues (up to 30 cars) and dry pumps. Travelers should fuel up whenever possible. The official limit for fuel export from Russia to Mongolia is 10 liters per vehicle in a canister.

Diesel fuel is generally more available than gasoline in Mongolia. However, even with availability, there might be issues with actual refueling service or queues, with some commercial vehicles (tractors) observed getting priority.

Fuel availability in Mongolia, particularly Ulaanbaatar, is inconsistent. Some report long queues and night closures despite 24/7 official hours. Prices vary, with reports of 3200-3400 MNT per liter in rural areas (Altai) compared to 2900 MNT. In Ulaanbaatar, recent reports suggest improvements: no queues, normal prices, and increased limits (e.g., from 30 to 50 liters at Tatneft stations). Fuel is essential in rural areas for basic needs, while public transport is viable in Ulaanbaatar.

When traveling by car in Mongolia, it is not advisable to rely solely on the Tès gas station for refueling. It is recommended to fill up your tank completely in Erzin, Russia, before crossing the border. Any fuel obtained at Tès should be considered a bonus. A general rule of thumb for driving in Mongolia is to refuel whenever a gas station is encountered, especially before venturing into desert areas. There are reports of a gas station in Zulunhangai offering only 80-octane fuel. Many travelers, including those from Tuva, go to Tès specifically to refuel.

Travelers on the Altai route in Russia, specifically between the Mongolian border and Shebalino village (approximately 340 km), may encounter fuel shortages. Several stations were observed charging exorbitant prices (160-170 RUB/liter). The OPTI gas station in Shebalino offered fuel at a more reasonable price (82.5 RUB/liter), though with a queue. It is advisable to plan fuel stops carefully or carry extra fuel when traversing this section.