If you’re an expat dreaming of owning a home in Dubai, you’re not alone. The city’s luxury lifestyle, modern infrastructure, and tax-free environment make it a hotspot for property buyers from all over the world. But you might be wondering: “Can I, as an expat, actually get a mortgage in Dubai?”

The answer is yes — you can! Expats can get mortgages in Dubai, but there are a few things you need to know before diving in. Mortgages let you buy your dream property without paying the full price upfront, making homeownership more realistic and manageable.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything step by step — from who’s eligible, the documents you’ll need, the types of mortgages available, the costs involved, and a few tips to help you get the best deal. Whether it’s your first property or your fifth investment, knowing the process will save you time, money, and a lot of stress.

Here’s the good news: getting a mortgage as an expat is totally doable — you just need the right info and a bit of planning. Let’s get started!

Are Expats Eligible for Mortgages in Dubai?

The short answer? Absolutely! But, like everything in Dubai, there are rules to follow. Banks want to make sure you can comfortably afford the mortgage, so they have a few eligibility criteria for expats.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Age Matters – Most banks look for borrowers between 21 and 65 years old. If you’re within this range, you’re good to go.
• Salary Requirements – Banks want to see a steady income. Usually, there’s a minimum salary requirement, which can vary depending on the bank and the property value.
• Job Stability – Lenders prefer expats who’ve been in their current job or industry for 1–2 years. If you’re new in Dubai, some banks might ask for extra documentation or a higher down payment.
• Residency Status – You’ll need a valid UAE residence visa to apply. No visa, no mortgage.

The good news is that Dubai’s banks are pretty open to expats, and with the right documents and planning, getting approved is easier than you might think.

Think of it this way: banks want to help you own property, but they also want to be confident you can manage the payments. Meeting these basic requirements puts you on the fast track to your dream home.

How Much Can Expats Borrow? 

So, how much can you actually borrow as an expat in Dubai? Well, that depends on two main things — your income type (whether you’re salaried or self-employed) and the property value you’re aiming for. Let’s break it down. 

Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratio

The LTV tells you how much of the property price the bank will finance and how much you’ll need to pay as a down payment.

Here’s what most banks offer:

• Up to 80% of the property value for your first home (for expats).
• Around 75% or lower for second properties or investment units.

Example: If you’re buying a property worth AED 1,000,000, you’ll usually need to pay at least AED 200,000 as a down payment, while the bank covers the remaining AED 800,000.

For Salaried Expats

If you’re employed full-time in the UAE, the bank will primarily look at:

• Minimum Salary: Usually AED 10,000–15,000 per month, depending on the bank.
• Employment Tenure: Most banks prefer you’ve been with your current employer for at least 6–12 months, or in the same industry for a few years.
• Debt Ratio: Your total monthly debt payments (including credit cards, loans, etc.) should not exceed 50% of your income.

For Self-Employed Expats

If you run your own business or freelance, the process is a bit more detailed — but still very possible.
Here’s what banks look for:

• Business Age: Usually, your company must be operating for at least 2 years (sometimes 3).
• Income Proof: You’ll need to show audited financial statements, trade license, and 6–12 months of company bank statements.
• Average Monthly Income: Generally, you should show a net income of AED 25,000 or more to qualify comfortably.
• Stability: Banks assess your business’s revenue consistency, not just profit.

Types of Mortgages Available to Expats in Dubai

1. Fixed-Rate Mortgage

A fixed-rate mortgage is one of the most common options for expats buying property in Dubai. With this type, your interest rate stays the same for a set period — usually between one to five years. This means your monthly payments remain consistent, making it easier to plan your finances. It’s perfect if you prefer stability and don’t want surprises when rates fluctuate. Just keep in mind that after the fixed term ends, your mortgage usually shifts to a variable rate, so it’s a good idea to check what that future rate might be before signing.

1. Variable (Floating) Rate Mortgage

A variable-rate mortgage, also known as a floating rate mortgage, offers more flexibility. Here, your interest rate changes based on market conditions or the Emirates Interbank Offered Rate (EIBOR). When rates go down, your monthly payment decreases — which can save you money. However, if rates rise, your payments go up too. This option is better suited for expats who are financially comfortable with some level of uncertainty or expect interest rates to fall in the near future.

1. Islamic (Sharia-Compliant) Mortgage

For Muslim expats, or anyone who prefers ethical, interest-free financing, Islamic mortgages are a great alternative. Instead of charging interest, the bank buys the property and leases or sells it back to you at an agreed profit rate. This type of mortgage follows Islamic finance principles, often referred to as Ijara or Murabaha. The process feels similar to a regular mortgage, but it aligns with Sharia law and offers full transparency in how profits are calculated.

1. Off-Plan Property Mortgage

If you’re interested in buying a property that’s still under construction, you can explore off-plan mortgages. Some banks in Dubai finance properties from approved developers even before they’re completed. This type of mortgage is ideal for investors or buyers looking to secure property at an early stage — often at a lower price than ready units. However, off-plan mortgages usually require a higher down payment, sometimes up to 30–50% and are available through selected banks only.

Each of these mortgage types has its own advantages depending on your goals, risk comfort, and financial situation. If you prefer predictable payments, go for a fixed-rate option. If you like flexibility and can handle market changes, a variable rate might be better. Islamic mortgages are great for Sharia-compliant financing, while off-plan mortgages suit early investors. It’s always wise to compare offers from different banks or speak to a mortgage broker to find the best fit for your needs.

Costs Involved When Getting a Mortgage as an Expat

1. Down Payment

Expats in Dubai usually need to pay at least 20% of the property price as a down payment for their first home, and around 25% or more for investment properties. For example, a AED 1 million property would require around AED 200,000 upfront.

1. Dubai Land Department (DLD) Fees

You’ll need to pay a 4% DLD transfer fee, plus a small admin fee (around AED 540–2,000 depending on property type). This covers the official property registration.

1. Agent & Bank Fees

Expect a 2% broker commission if you buy through an agent, and a bank processing fee of 0.5%–1% of the loan amount. Banks also charge a valuation fee of around AED 2,500–3,000.

1. Insurance & Other Costs

Don’t forget mortgage and property insurance, which protect you and your home. Also, factor in minor costs like moving and setting up utilities.

Quick Tip: In total, expect upfront costs to reach about 25–30% of the property’s value, once you include the down payment and all related fees.

Tips for Expats to Secure a Mortgage in Dubai

1. Keep Your Credit Score Strong: Banks in Dubai look closely at your credit history and repayment behaviour. Always pay with credit cards and loans on time — even one missed payment can affect your mortgage approval chances.
2. Organize Your Documents Early: Before applying, prepare your salary slips, bank statements, Emirates ID, passport, and visa copies. Having these ready shows lenders you’re reliable and speeds up the process.
3. Compare Multiple Banks: Don’t just go with the first offer you get. Interest rates, fees, and approval requirements vary across banks. Comparing at least three lenders can save you thousands over time.
4. Work with a Mortgage Advisor: If you’re new to the UAE or unsure about eligibility, a mortgage advisor can help you find the right deal and handle paperwork — making the whole process smooth and stress-free.

Conclusion

Buying a home in Dubai as an expat isn’t as complicated as it may seem — it just takes the right guidance and preparation. From understanding eligibility and loan limits to managing costs and comparing rates, the key is to plan smart and stay informed.

Whether you’re purchasing your first home or an investment property, the UAE’s mortgage market offers plenty of options for expats ready to make Dubai their home.

If you’re not sure where to start — don’t worry. At Yazodo, we simplify the entire process by comparing top UAE banks, finding the best mortgage offers, and guiding you from pre-approval to handover.

✅ Free mortgage consultation
✅ Fast approvals from leading banks
✅ Expert help for expats and UAE nationals

Start your free consultation today at www.yazodo.com and take your first step toward owning your dream home in Dubai!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, legal, or investment advice. Mortgage eligibility, interest rates, fees, and terms may vary based on individual circumstances, lender policies, and regulatory requirements in the UAE.

All mortgage approvals are subject to bank assessment and applicable regulations set by the relevant authorities in the UAE.