How to Get a Mortgage in Dubai: An Expat Buyer’s Guide
You don’t have to buy in cash — expats can and do finance Dubai property with a mortgage. This guide explains the deposit rules, eligibility, rates, costs and the step-by-step process so you know exactly what to expect before you apply.
How much deposit do you need?
For expats buying a first ready property, UAE mortgage rules generally require a minimum 20% down payment on homes up to AED 5M (25% above that), plus purchase costs on top. For off-plan, banks often finance a portion while you follow the developer’s payment plan during construction.
Who can get a mortgage?
Residents
Salaried and self-employed residents get the widest choice of banks and rates.
Non-residents
Many banks also lend to non-residents, usually at a higher deposit (often 25–50%).
Income & age
Lenders assess income, existing debt, and set maximum age at loan maturity.
Rates and terms
Dubai mortgages come as fixed (fixed for an initial 1–5 years) or variable (linked to EIBOR). Terms run up to 25 years. Your total monthly repayments across all debt are typically capped at around 50% of income (the DBR rule), which sets your borrowing limit.
The step-by-step process
- Get pre-approval — a bank confirms how much you can borrow (valid ~60 days). Do this before you shortlist.
- Find the property and agree terms — see current off-plan projects and listings.
- Valuation — the bank values the property.
- Final offer letter — the bank issues the mortgage offer.
- Transfer & registration — the sale and mortgage are registered at the Dubai Land Department.
Costs to budget for
On top of the deposit: mortgage registration (0.25% of the loan), a bank arrangement fee (~1%), a valuation fee, plus the standard 4% DLD and purchase costs. We factor all of these into your budget before you commit.
Fixed vs variable — which to choose?
A fixed-rate mortgage locks your rate for an initial period (typically 1–5 years), giving predictable repayments — useful if you value certainty or expect rates to rise. A variable rate tracks EIBOR and can fall (or climb) with the market. Most expat buyers pick a fixed period for the early years, then review. The right choice depends on your view on rates and how long you plan to hold the property, which we can talk through as part of planning your budget.
How to improve your approval odds
Banks look hardest at your income stability, existing debt and credit history. Keep credit-card balances and personal loans low before you apply (they reduce how much you can borrow under the 50%-of-income debt rule), have your salary certificate, bank statements and Emirates ID ready, and get pre-approved before you shortlist so you negotiate as a ready buyer. A clean, well-documented application is approved faster and at better terms.
Frequently asked questions
Can expats get a mortgage in Dubai?
Yes — both residents and, at many banks, non-residents can get a mortgage, typically with a 20–25% (or higher) down payment.
What is the minimum down payment?
Usually 20% for expats on ready homes up to AED 5M, plus purchase costs. Non-residents and higher-value homes need more.
Can I get a mortgage on off-plan?
Some banks finance off-plan on approved projects, though many buyers use the developer’s construction-linked payment plan instead.
Want to know your budget with financing? Book a free consultation and we’ll help you plan the numbers before you buy.
Need advice on this?
Speak to a Dar Al Yusr consultant for guidance tailored to your budget and goals.