Mortgage Options for Expats in Dubai: A Complete Guide
Discover the best mortgage options for expats in Dubai, including eligibility criteria, interest rates, loan-to-value ratios, and the best banks for home loans.
Dubai’s real estate market continues to attract expats and foreign investors, offering high rental yields and long-term capital appreciation. For many expats, financing a property purchase through a mortgage is a practical option. UAE banks offer competitive mortgage products tailored to both residents and non-residents, making it easier to own property in one of the world’s top investment destinations.
This guide covers everything you need to know about mortgage options for expats in Dubai, including eligibility, loan terms, interest rates, and key regulations.
Article Overview
1. Can Expats Get a Mortgage in Dubai?
2. Types of Mortgages Available for Expats
c) Islamic Home Finance (Sharia-Compliant)
3. Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratios for Expats
4. Interest Rates on Mortgages in Dubai
5. Best Banks for Expat Mortgages in Dubai
6. Eligibility Requirements for Expats Applying for a Mortgage
7. Steps to Get a Mortgage as an Expat in Dubai
Step 1: Get Pre-Approval from a Bank
Step 2: Choose a Property & Sign the Sales Agreement (MoU)
Step 3: Property Valuation & Final Loan Approval
Step 4: Register the Mortgage with the Dubai Land Department (DLD)
1. Can Expats Get a Mortgage in Dubai?
Yes, expats and foreign investors can obtain mortgages in Dubai, subject to specific eligibility criteria. The UAE Central Bank regulates mortgage lending to ensure financial stability and fair lending practices.
Key Mortgage Rules for Expats:
✔ Minimum salary requirement: AED 15,000 per month (varies by bank).
✔ Maximum loan term: 25 years.
✔ Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratio: Up to 80% financing for first-time buyers.
✔ Debt-to-Income Ratio: Monthly debt repayments must not exceed 50% of total income.
🔗 UAE Central Bank Mortgage Regulations
2. Types of Mortgages Available for Expats
a) Fixed-Rate Mortgages
Interest rate remains constant for a fixed period (1-5 years).
Offers stability and predictable monthly payments.
Suitable for buyers seeking long-term financial security.
Example: A 3-year fixed-rate mortgage at 4.5% interest.
🔗 Compare Fixed-Rate Mortgage Plans
b) Variable-Rate Mortgages
Interest rates fluctuate based on EIBOR (Emirates Interbank Offered Rate).
Can be beneficial if market rates decrease over time.
Best for short-term investors or those expecting lower interest rates.
c) Islamic Home Finance (Sharia-Compliant)
Based on Murabaha or Ijara financing principles.
No interest (Riba); instead, banks charge a profit rate.
Compliant with Islamic banking laws.
🔗 Islamic Home Finance Options
d) Offset Mortgages
Links a mortgage loan to a savings account.
Savings reduce the interest payable on the loan.
Ideal for buyers with large savings or fluctuating incomes.
3. Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratios for Expats
The maximum mortgage amount an expat can borrow depends on the property value and whether it’s a first-time purchase.
Note: Mortgage regulations for expats differ between residents and non-residents. UAE residents get higher loan percentages compared to non-residents.
🔗 Dubai Land Department Mortgage Guidelines
4. Interest Rates on Mortgages in Dubai
Dubai mortgage interest rates vary based on loan type, bank policies, and the UAE interbank rate (EIBOR).
🔗 Compare Mortgage Interest Rates
5. Best Banks for Expat Mortgages in Dubai
Many local and international banks offer mortgages to expats. Below are the top banks in the UAE for mortgage financing:
Top UAE Banks for Mortgages
✔ Emirates NBD – Offers fixed & variable-rate mortgages.
✔ Dubai Islamic Bank – Leading provider of Islamic home financing.
✔ Mashreq Bank – Competitive rates for resident and non-resident expats.
✔ Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) – Best for Sharia-compliant mortgages.
✔ First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) – Tailored home loans for UAE residents.
🔗 Apply for a Mortgage with Emirates NBD
6. Eligibility Requirements for Expats Applying for a Mortgage
To qualify for a mortgage, expats must meet specific eligibility criteria, including:
✔ Minimum Age: 21+ years old.
✔ Employment Type: Must have a stable job or business in the UAE.
✔ Minimum Salary: AED 15,000+ (varies by bank).
✔ Credit Score: A high AECB credit score improves mortgage approval chances.
✔ Debt-to-Income Ratio: Monthly debt payments should not exceed 50% of total income.
🔗 Check UAE Credit Score (AECB)
7. Steps to Get a Mortgage as an Expat in Dubai
Step 1: Get Pre-Approval from a Bank
A pre-approval letter confirms loan eligibility and maximum amount.
Valid for 60-90 days.
Step 2: Choose a Property & Sign the Sales Agreement (MoU)
Negotiate the property price.
Sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
Step 3: Property Valuation & Final Loan Approval
The bank conducts a property valuation.
Upon approval, final loan terms are issued.
Step 4: Register the Mortgage with the Dubai Land Department (DLD)
Pay 0.25% of the loan amount as the mortgage registration fee.
The Title Deed is issued in the buyer’s name.
🔗 DLD Mortgage Registration Process
To find the best mortgage plan for your property investment in Dubai, I recommend the following steps:
1️⃣ Identify Your Mortgage Type: Do you prefer a fixed-rate, variable-rate, or Islamic home finance?
2️⃣ Determine Your Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratio: Based on whether you’re a UAE resident or non-resident, how much financing do you need?
3️⃣ Compare Interest Rates & Terms: Each bank offers different rates, loan tenures, and eligibility requirements.
4️⃣ Get Pre-Approval: A pre-approval letter helps streamline the buying process.
5️⃣ Choose a Property & Finalize the Loan: Work with a trusted real estate broker to find the best property investment.
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