Check your eligibility
Banks look at income, length of employment, existing debts and age. Total monthly debt repayments are capped at 50% of income.
Get a pre-approval
A pre-approval (usually valid for 60–90 days) confirms your budget and strengthens your offer with sellers.
Know the loan-to-value limits
UAE Central Bank caps apply: expatriate residents can borrow up to 80% on a first home up to AED 5 million and less above that; non-residents are typically offered 50–60%.
Compare rates and products
Choose between fixed rates (typically for 1–5 years) and variable rates linked to EIBOR. Compare fees, early-settlement terms and insurance, not just the headline rate.
Valuation and final offer
After you sign the MOU, the bank values the property and issues the final offer letter.
Transfer and registration
The bank pays the seller at the DLD transfer and the mortgage is registered against the title deed.
Mortgage costs at a glance
| Down payment (expat, first home up to AED 5M) | Minimum 20% |
|---|---|
| Mortgage registration | 0.25% of the loan + AED 290 |
| Bank arrangement fee | Up to 1% of the loan + VAT |
| Valuation fee | Approx. AED 2,500–3,500 + VAT |
| Maximum term | Up to 25 years |
This guide is for general information only. Fees and regulations change, so confirm with the relevant authority or speak with our team before making a decision.
Frequently asked questions
Can non-residents get a mortgage in the UAE?
Yes. Several banks lend to non-residents, usually with a 40–50% down payment and stricter documentation.
Can I get a mortgage on an off-plan property?
Some banks finance off-plan units from approved developers, typically up to 50% loan-to-value, released against construction progress.
Is there an age limit for a mortgage?
Most banks require the loan to end by age 65 for salaried expatriates and up to 70 for self-employed applicants and UAE nationals.
English
العربية