Buyer Guides · 7 min read
Can foreigners get a mortgage in Dubai? Non-resident financing explained
The EQT Private Office · RERA-registered brokerage · Published June 14, 2026 · Updated August 3, 2026
Yes, foreigners and non-residents can get a mortgage in Dubai. UAE banks lend to non-residents at typically up to 50-60% loan-to-value, while residents can borrow up to 80%, so a non-resident usually needs a deposit of around 40-50% plus fees. Approval depends on your income, the bank's eligible-country list and the property itself.
Key takeaways
- •Non-residents and foreigners can obtain mortgages from UAE banks.
- •Non-residents borrow up to about 50-60% loan-to-value; residents up to 80%.
- •That means a non-resident deposit of roughly 40-50%, plus the usual 6-8% buying fees.
- •Terms run up to 25 years, with fixed and variable (EIBOR-linked) rate options.
- •Approval hinges on income, the bank's approved-country and developer lists, and a valuation.
Who qualifies and how much you can borrow
Lending limits are set by the UAE Central Bank and each bank's own policy. Residents with a UAE income can borrow the most; non-residents can still borrow, but at a lower loan-to-value and often from a shorter list of lenders.
- •Residents: up to 80% loan-to-value on a first home under AED 5 million (less above that or on a second property).
- •Non-residents: typically up to 50-60% loan-to-value.
- •Terms usually up to 25 years, subject to a maximum age at maturity.
- •Lenders keep an approved-country list, so eligibility can depend on your nationality or residency.
- •Off-plan and some developments may be financed only by certain banks.
Fixed vs variable mortgage rates
Dubai mortgages come as fixed-rate (a set rate for an introductory period, commonly one to five years) or variable-rate, which tracks the Emirates Interbank Offered Rate (EIBOR) plus a margin. After a fixed period ends, the loan usually reverts to a variable rate.
Fixed rates give payment certainty in the early years; variable rates can be cheaper but move with the market. The right choice depends on your view of rates and how long you plan to hold.
The documents you'll need
Banks assess your income and existing commitments, so preparing paperwork upfront speeds up approval. Requirements are broadly similar for residents and non-residents, with non-residents sometimes asked for more.
- •Passport (and UAE visa plus Emirates ID if resident).
- •Proof of income: recent payslips and a salary certificate, or audited accounts for the self-employed.
- •Six to twelve months of personal and, if relevant, business bank statements.
- •Details of existing liabilities (loans, cards) for affordability checks.
The mortgage process, step by step
The process runs alongside your purchase and typically adds a couple of weeks. A mortgage broker or your agent can coordinate lender selection to keep timelines tight.
- •1. Get a pre-approval, confirming how much the bank will lend.
- •2. Find the property and agree terms; the bank commissions a valuation.
- •3. Receive the final offer letter and sign the loan agreement.
- •4. Register the mortgage at the DLD (0.25% of the loan plus a small fee).
- •5. The bank disburses the loan at transfer, and title is issued in your name.
Frequently asked
Can a non-resident get a mortgage in Dubai?+
Yes. UAE banks offer mortgages to non-residents, typically up to 50-60% loan-to-value, subject to income verification and the bank's eligible-country and approved-developer lists. Residents can usually borrow more, up to around 80%.
How much deposit do I need to buy property in Dubai?+
Residents typically need a deposit from around 20% of the price on a first home, while non-residents usually need around 40-50%, plus the 4% Dubai Land Department fee and other transaction costs.
What are mortgage rates in Dubai?+
Dubai mortgage rates vary with the market and are offered as fixed (for an introductory period) or variable rates linked to EIBOR plus a margin. Rates move over time, so compare current offers across banks rather than relying on a single figure.
Can I get a mortgage on off-plan property in Dubai?+
Some banks finance off-plan purchases from approved developers, though often at a lower loan-to-value and sometimes released at or near handover. Availability depends on the project and lender, so check before committing.
