Photo: krishna kumar c / UnsplashMortgages in the UAE
How much you can borrow, what you put down, and how a mortgage fits an off-plan payment plan.
Loan-to-value limits
The UAE Central Bank sets maximum loan-to-value (LTV) ratios. For an expatriate resident buying a first home under AED 5 million, banks can lend up to 80%, so the minimum down payment is 20%. Limits are lower above AED 5 million and for second or investment homes.
Non-residents can also borrow from several UAE banks, usually with a larger down payment — commonly around 40–50% — and each bank sets its own criteria.
Off-plan and mortgages
Most banks lend on completed homes. With off-plan, buyers usually pay the construction instalments themselves and use a mortgage for the balance due on handover, when the home can be valued and registered.
Fees to budget for
| Fee | Typical amount |
|---|---|
| Mortgage registration (Dubai Land Department) | 0.25% of the loan + admin fee |
| Bank valuation | about AED 2,500–3,500 + VAT |
| Bank arrangement fee | up to about 1% of the loan + VAT |
Amounts vary by bank and change over time — the bank's offer letter is the reference.
What banks look at
Income and employment, existing debts (total monthly repayments are capped at 50% of income), age at the end of the loan, and the property itself.
We are not a bank or a mortgage adviser. We introduce you to UAE banks and mortgage advisers and align the payment plan with the bank's timeline.
Questions buyers ask
How much deposit do I need in Dubai?
For a resident expatriate buying a first home under AED 5 million, at least 20% plus fees. Non-residents usually need more — often 40–50% — depending on the bank.
Can I use a mortgage for an off-plan purchase?
Usually for the handover balance. Some banks finance earlier stages for selected projects, often with a lower loan-to-value.
Free · no obligation
Speak to an advisor
Tell us what you are looking for — an advisor replies with current options, usually by WhatsApp or email.
- Official prices and payment plans, as published
- One advisor from shortlist to handover
- Off-plan and ready homes across the UAE