Dubai Mortgage for Non-Residents

Types of Mortgages in Dubai for Non-Residents

According to the UAE Central Bank’s regulations, non-residents (expatriates) are eligible for mortgages. However, the mortgage options for non-residents buying property in Dubai depend on the property type and the lender’s policies.

1. Owner-Occupier Mortgage: For buying a property to live in. Non-residents can access this type of mortgage, subject to LTV and DBR (Debt Burden Ratio) limits set by the bank.

2. Buy-to-Let Mortgage (Investment Property): For purchasing property to rent out. Non-residents can apply, but banks may have stricter criteria, including lower LTV limits.

3. Conventional Mortgage: Fixed or variable-rate mortgages. These mortgages are available to non-residents, though conditions like down payment and LTV may vary based on the bank.

4. Dubai Islamic Bank Mortgage for Non-Resident: Available for non-residents in Dubai looking for a mortgage in compliance with Islamic finance principles. Terms depend on the bank.

Conditions of Mortgages in Dubai for Non-Residents

Below are the main conditions for non-residents to secure a mortgage in the UAE:

1. Higher Down Payment of Dubai Mortgage for Non-Residents

Non-residents are typically required to provide a higher down payment in comparison to residents. The down payment is usually between 35 to 40% of the property’s value. This amount corresponds to the Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio, which for non-residents typically ranges from 50% to 80%.

2. Property Type and Dubai Home Loan for Non-Residents

To be eligible for a mortgage, the property must be located in a free zone (where foreigners are allowed to own property). If the property is in a non-freehold area (leasehold), UAE banks generally do not offer mortgages to non-residents.

Don’t miss our free guide to freehold ownership in Dubai for foreign buyers!

3. Required Documents to Get Mortgages in Dubai for Non-Residents

Non-residents in the UAE must submit specific documents to apply for a mortgage. These typically include:

• A valid passport

• Proof of employment, such as salary slips or tax returns

• Bank statements and evidence of the ability to make payments

• Proof of income (especially for self-employed individuals)

4. Mortgage Rate in Dubai for Non-Residents

Non‑residents should typically expect mortgage interest rates in Dubai around 5 to 6.5%. However, under some conditions, including good income, a large down payment, and high credit, rates might start from 4 to 5%. Before applying, always check current rates with multiple banks.

5. Dubai Home Loan Term for Non-Residents

Interest rates and loan terms for non-residents may differ from those for residents. Typically, interest rates for non-residents are higher, and the loan term is usually between 20 and 25 years. Some banks may have stricter conditions for non-residents, such as shorter loan terms or higher interest rates.

6. Credit and Risk Assessment

Banks often have specific criteria for assessing risk. For example, the Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI) must be less than 50% of the applicant’s monthly income. Banks may also place more focus on the applicant’s credit history and financial background.

UAE Central Bank Rules: LTV Limits of Mortgage for Non-Residents in Dubai

Foreigners (non-residents) seeking a mortgage in the UAE are subject to specific Loan to Value (LTV) limits. These LTV limits reflect Central Bank regulations as implemented by UAE banks, even though the CBUAE does not publish a public consumer-facing matrix.

LTV for off‑plan properties can vary depending on the bank’s assessment, the project’s developer reputation, and the buyer’s profile.

How to Get a Mortgage in Dubai for Non-Residents

Mortgages in Dubai for Non-Residents process includes:

• Consult a mortgage advisor to explore Dubai home loans for Expatriates.

• Choose the right mortgage with your broker’s help.

• Get pre-approval from the bank.

• Receive a pre-approval letter from the bank.

• Find a property for sale in the UAE.

• Negotiate the price with the seller.

• Pay the deposit to secure the sale.

• Finalize the mortgage and transfer with your broker and conveyancer.

Eligible Nationalities to Get a Dubai Mortgage for Non-Residents

Non-residents from most nationalities can get a mortgage in Dubai and the UAE if they meet standard financial criteria. UAE banks use internally approved nationality lists for AML (Anti-Money Laundering) and KYC (Know Your Customer) compliance.

Widely accepted passports include the UK, all EU countries, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, Singapore, India, Pakistan, Russia, China, Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, Morocco, and most GCC states (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates).

Citizens of Iran, Syria, North Korea, Afghanistan, Yemen, Somalia, Sudan, Venezuela, Myanmar, and other FATF high-risk or sanctioned jurisdictions are almost always declined.

Final Words

In conclusion, securing a Dubai mortgage for non-residents in 2026 remains an accessible option for international investors looking to buy property in the United Arab Emirates.

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