Table of Contents
- Can Non-Residents Get a Mortgage in Dubai?
- Legal Requirements to Get a Mortgage as a Foreigner
- Types of Mortgages in Dubai
- Dubai Mortgage Rates in 2025
- How Much Can You Borrow?
- Required Documents for Non-Residents
- Step-by-Step Process to Get a Dubai Mortgage
- Best Banks Offering Mortgages to Foreigners
- Additional Fees & Costs
- Benefits of Investing with a Mortgage in Dubai
- FAQs
- Final Thoughts
1. Can Non-Residents Get a Mortgage in Dubai?
Indeed, non-residents may obtain mortgages in Dubai. Foreigners are allowed to buy property in specific freehold zones. Non-residents qualify for mortgage applications, but conditions are usually more stringent than for residents. Generally, banks require at least AED 15,000 (about $4,000) in monthly income, in addition to a 25% down payment on the property’s value.
2. Legal Requirements to Get a Mortgage as a Foreigner
In 2002, the UAE passed the Freehold Law allowing foreigners to buy property and apply for mortgages in Dubai. Non-residents must:
- Purchase property in a designated freehold area
- Provide proof of legal income
- Be over 21 years of age
- Maintain a good international credit score
Explore available freehold properties on our Dubai Property Listings
3. Types of Mortgages in Dubai
Dubai offers two primary mortgage types:
Fixed-Rate Mortgage:
- Interest rate remains constant for 1–5 years
- Ideal for budgeting
Variable-Rate Mortgage:
- Interest rate fluctuates with the market
- May offer lower rates initially
Some banks also offer hybrid mortgages, combining both fixed and variable components.
4. Dubai Mortgage Rates in 2025
As of early 2025, mortgage rates in Dubai generally range from 3% to 5%, depending on:
- Loan amount
- Type of mortgage
- Bank policies
- Buyer creditworthiness
5. How Much Can You Borrow?
According to UAE law, expats can borrow up to 50%–75% of the property value, depending on whether it’s a first or second home. Additionally:
- Maximum loan term: 25 years
- The loan cannot exceed 7x annual income
Example:
If your annual income is AED 360,000, you may be eligible for a mortgage of up to AED 2.5 million.
6. Required Documents for Non-Residents
To apply for a Dubai mortgage, you typically need:
- Valid passport
- Proof of income (salary slips, tax returns)
- Bank statements (last 6 months)
- Credit report (from your home country)
- An employment contract or business license (for self-employed)
- Property documents (if already selected)
7. Step-by-Step Process to Get a Dubai Mortgage
- Hire a broker or go directly to a bank
- Get mortgage pre-approval
- Select a property within your approved budget
- Sign a Sales Purchase Agreement (SPA)
- Pay the down payment
- Get final bank approval and valuation
- Register the mortgage with the Dubai Land Department (DLD)
- Transfer ownership
8. Best Banks Offering Mortgages to Foreigners
Here are the top banks that provide home loans to non-residents:
- HSBC – International reach and competitive packages
- Mashreq Bank – Strong local presence
- Emirates NBD – Wide product range
- Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) – Islamic mortgage options
9. Additional Fees & Costs
Besides the down payment, expect to pay:
- DLD Mortgage Registration Fee – 0.25% of loan value
- Bank Processing Fees – Up to 1% of the loan amount
- Property Valuation Fees – AED 2,500 to AED 3,500
- Mortgage Life Insurance – Required by most banks
10. Benefits of Investing with a Mortgage in Dubai
- Leverage: Own high-value property with lower upfront investment
- Rental Income: Use rent to cover EMI (Installments)
- Golden Visa Eligibility: Property investment from AED 2 million+
- No Property Taxes: Maximize ROI
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can tourists apply for a mortgage in Dubai?
Yes, tourists can apply if they meet eligibility requirements and provide income proof.
Q2: Is property insurance mandatory?
Yes, property insurance is required to protect the asset.
Q3: How long does mortgage approval take?
Usually 7–14 working days, depending on document completeness.
Q4: Can I get a mortgage for off-plan properties?
Yes, some banks offer this, but terms may vary.
Q5: What happens if I default on a mortgage?
The bank can repossess and auction the property.
Final Thoughts
As a foreigner, obtaining a mortgage in Dubai in 2025 is very feasible with the proper assistance. Regardless of whether you’re purchasing a lavish villa situated on Palm Jumeirah or an apartment in Dubai Marina, Regent Elite Properties is here to support you throughout the entire process.
Let us simplify your property investment.
