LTV for non-resident buyers
The UAE Central Bank regulates maximum loan-to-value ratios. For non-resident buyers, the maximum LTV is 50% for properties valued up to AED 5 million, and lower for higher-value properties. This means a minimum 50% down payment. Combined with acquisition costs of 7-8%, you need approximately 55-58% of the purchase price available in cash.
Residents of the UAE receive more favorable terms: 80% LTV for properties up to AED 5 million (first property) and 70% for subsequent properties.
Interest rates (per Q2 2026)
Dubai mortgages are typically linked to the EIBOR (Emirates Interbank Offered Rate) plus a bank-specific spread:
| Rate type | Range | Structure |
|---|---|---|
| Variable rate | 5.5-7.0% | 3M EIBOR + 2-3% spread |
| Fixed rate (2-5 years) | 4.5-6.0% | Fixed initial period, then variable |
Note: "fixed rate" in Dubai typically means fixed for an initial period (2-5 years), after which the rate reverts to variable. True lifetime fixed rates are rare.
DBR cap (Debt Burden Ratio)
UAE Central Bank regulations cap the debt burden ratio at 50% of monthly income. This includes all debt obligations: the Dubai mortgage, any existing mortgage in the Netherlands, car loans, credit cards (5% of limit counted), and personal loans. The calculation uses gross income.
Banks serving non-residents
Emirates NBD: Largest bank in the UAE. Dedicated non-resident mortgage team. English-speaking advisors. Competitive rates for European clients.
ADCB (Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank): Active in Dubai market. Good fixed-rate offerings. Accepts income documentation in English.
Mashreq Bank: Often the most flexible for non-resident applications. Accepts a wider range of income documentation formats.
RAK Bank: Competitive rates for smaller loan amounts. Good processing speed.
HSBC UAE: Useful if you have an existing HSBC relationship. Can leverage global income verification.
Required documents
Identity: Passport copy, proof of address in home country, salary certificate or employment contract.
Income: Last 6 months bank statements, last 3 salary slips (or 2 years accounts if self-employed), tax return from home country.
Property: Signed MOU or SPA, title deed (for resale), floor plan from developer (for off-plan).
Pre-approval process
Get pre-approved before making offers. Most banks can issue a pre-approval letter within 3-5 business days based on your documentation. The pre-approval is typically valid for 60 days. Final approval after the property is identified takes 2-4 weeks, including valuation.
Use our pre-check calculator to estimate your borrowing capacity. For detailed area comparisons: Dubai market guide.
Per Q2 2026. Rates subject to change. Source: UAE Central Bank | Dubai Land Department
Buying costs
| Cost item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mortgage registration fee | 0.25% of loan | Paid to DLD |
| Property valuation | AED 2,500-3,500 | Bank-appointed valuer |
| Life insurance | 0.5-0.8% of loan/year | Decreasing term, required |
| Property insurance | AED 1,000-3,000/year | Building + contents |
| Processing fee | 1% of loan | One-time bank fee |
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