Dubai’s thriving real estate market continues to attract foreign investors looking for high returns and world-class properties. But many potential buyers hesitate because they don’t understand how the mortgage system works for non-residents. If you’re an international buyer interested in purchasing property in Dubai, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting a mortgage in Dubai.
Yes! Dubai welcomes foreign investors, and both residents and non-residents can apply for mortgages. While residents typically have more financing options and better rates, many banks and financial institutions also offer mortgage products to non-resident buyers.
Here’s what you’ll generally need to qualify for a Dubai mortgage as a foreigner:
✅ Valid Passport & Visa – Proof of identity is a must.
✅ Proof of Income – Salary slips, bank statements, or tax returns showing stable income.
✅ Good Credit History – Banks will check your creditworthiness; a solid credit record helps.
✅ Down Payment – Foreign buyers must pay at least 20–25% of the property’s value upfront for properties under AED 5 million (and sometimes more for higher-value properties).
1️⃣ Fixed-Rate Mortgages – Interest rate stays the same for a set period, usually 1–5 years.
2️⃣ Variable-Rate Mortgages – Rates can fluctuate with the EIBOR (Emirates Interbank Offered Rate), which may benefit buyers if rates go down.
3️⃣ Islamic Mortgages – Sharia-compliant options like Ijara and Murabaha, available through Islamic banks.
Dubai’s loan-to-value (LTV) ratio generally allows:
Up to 75% financing for expats on properties worth less than AED 5 million.
Up to 65% financing for properties above AED 5 million.
Mortgage tenures typically range from 5 to 25 years.
Aside from the down payment, foreign buyers should budget for:
Bank Fees (0.5–1% of the loan amount)
Property Valuation Fees (around AED 2,500–3,500)
Dubai Land Department Fees (4% of property price + admin fees)
Broker or Agent Fees, if you use one (typically 1–2%)
1️⃣ Choose a property – Pick a property approved by the Dubai Land Department.
2️⃣ Get a pre-approval – Submit your documents to a bank to find out how much you can borrow.
3️⃣ Finalize purchase agreement – Sign the Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA).
4️⃣ Bank valuation – The bank will conduct a property valuation.
5️⃣ Sign mortgage offer letter – Review and sign the final loan documents.
6️⃣ Transfer property & register mortgage – Complete the process at the Dubai Land Department.
Emirates NBD
Mashreq Bank
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank
HSBC Middle East
Standard Chartered UAE
These banks offer dedicated products for non-residents, but rates, terms, and approval times vary.
✅ Maximize your ROI – Leverage financing to invest in higher-value properties.
✅ Flexible terms – Competitive rates and long tenures make Dubai mortgages attractive.
✅ Stable market – Dubai’s real estate is regulated and transparent, giving you peace of mind.
Understanding the mortgage system is key to making a smart investment in Dubai. By knowing your options and requirements as a foreign buyer, you can confidently finance your dream property in one of the world’s most exciting cities.
