How to Get a Mortgage in Dubai as a Foreigner (2025 Guide)

Man reviewing documents with a panoramic night view of Dubai Marina, representing access to mortgage financing and home loans for foreigners in Dubai in 2025. رجل يراجع مستندات مع إطلالة ليلية بانورامية على دبي مارينا، ترمز إلى سهولة الحصول على التمويل العقاري والقروض السكنية للأجانب في دبي لعام 2025.

Buying property in Dubai as an expat? A mortgage is possible. Here’s a step-by-step guide to securing a home loan in Dubai, with key requirements, banks, and insider tips.


Can Foreigners Get a Mortgage in Dubai?!

✅ Yes! Non-residents can borrow up to 50-75% of the property value.
✅ Residents (expats with visas) can get up to 80% financing.
✅ Interest rates start from 4.5% (fixed/variable).


Step 1: Check Eligibility

Basic Requirements:

✔ Minimum Salary: AED 15,000/month (some banks accept AED 10,000).
✔ Age Limit: 21-65 years (retirement age considered).
✔ Down Payment: 25-50% for non-residents, 20% for residents.
✔ Documents Needed:

  • Passport & visa copy
  • 6 months’ bank statements
  • Salary certificate (or 2 years’ audited accounts if self-employed)

Step 2: Compare Dubai Mortgage Lenders

BankMax Loan (Non-Residents)Interest Rate (2024)
HSBC UAE50% of property valueFrom 4.75%
Emirates NBD50-75%From 4.5%
Mashreq Bank50%From 4.99%

Tip: Non-residents get better rates from international banks (e.g., HSBC, Standard Chartered).


Step 3: Get Pre-Approval (Takes 2-5 Days)

  • Submit documents online or in-branch.
  • Bank assesses your income, credit history (if any), and property value.
  • Pre-approval letter helps you negotiate with sellers.

Step 4: Choose a Property & Finalize Loan

✅ Properties Eligible for Mortgages:

  • Freehold areas (Downtown, Marina, Palm Jumeirah, etc..).
  • Must be completed (off-plan financing is stricter).
    ✅ Bank Valuation: Lender checks if the property is worth the price.
    ✅ Final Approval: Sign loan agreement, pay fees (1-2% of loan amount).

Step 5: Register the Property

  • Pay 4% Dubai Land Department (DLD) fee.
  • Mortgage is registered at DLD (bank handles this).
  • You get the keys!

Extra Tips to Save Money

🔹 Negotiate interest rates—banks compete for expat buyers.
🔹 Fixed vs. Variable Rates: Fixed (2-5 years) is safer if rates rise.
🔹 Early repayment penalties? Some banks charge 1-2%.


Final Thoughts

Getting a mortgage in Dubai is easier than many think, even for non-residents. The key? Compare lenders, get pre-approved, and choose the right property.

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