Mortgage basics for residents and non-residents
Residents typically borrow up to 80% LTV (75% for non-Emiratis on first home over AED 5M). Non-residents are capped lower.
The UAE Central Bank sets the loan-to-value (LTV) limits for property mortgages. The numbers depend on whether you're an Emirati national, a UAE resident expat, or a non-resident, plus the property value and whether it's your first home.
UAE residents (expat)
- First home, up to AED 5M: up to 80% LTV.
- First home, above AED 5M: up to 70% LTV.
- Second / investment home: up to 65%.
- Off-plan: capped at 50% regardless.
Non-residents
Non-residents can typically borrow at 50–60% LTV. Fewer banks offer this, rates are higher, and processing is slower. Some banks require minimum deposits (AED 25k+) and a UAE-issued account.
Other things to know
- Maximum tenor: 25 years, ending no later than your 65th birthday (salaried) or 70th (self-employed).
- Debt-burden ratio: total monthly debts ≤ 50% of monthly income.
- Pre-approval is fast (1–2 weeks) and free at most banks. Get one before you offer.
- Rates in Dubai are typically EIBOR-linked variable, or fixed for 1–5 years before reverting to variable.
Brokerage costs nothing for the buyer if you go through an independent mortgage broker (banks pay them). Compare offers — the difference between banks is meaningful.
Sources: UAE Central Bank Mortgage Regulations.
Related questions
The 4% DLD transfer fee — and what else you'll pay
4% of the purchase price to the Land Department, plus admin and broker fees. Budget around 5–7% of price in total.
NOC from the developer — what it is and how to get one
The developer's No Objection Certificate confirms service charges are paid up. You can't transfer ownership without it.
Off-plan vs ready property — honest pros and cons
Off-plan buys you a payment plan and (usually) a lower entry price. Ready property gives you certainty and rental income now.