Facts checked as of Oct 2026 against official sources (listed at the end). Fees and rules change: confirm with the authority before you pay or sign.
Maximum loan-to-value for expats in Dubai
| Property | Max loan (LTV) | Min down payment |
|---|---|---|
| First home, value up to AED 5 million | 80% | 20% |
| First home, value above AED 5 million | 70% | 30% |
| Second home or investment property | 60% | 40% |
| Off-plan property (all buyers) | 50% | 50% |
These are maximums. A bank can lend less depending on your profile.
Debt burden ratio and stress test
Total monthly debt repayments, including the mortgage, cannot exceed 50% of gross salary and regular income. Banks must stress test the loan at 2 to 4 percentage points above the current rate. For investment property, the bank deducts at least two months’ rent from the calculation.
Maximum mortgage term in the UAE
The maximum mortgage term is 25 years. If repayments run past expected retirement age, the bank must be satisfied you can keep paying at a 50% debt burden ratio on post-retirement income.
Mortgage registration fee
DLD charges 0.25% of the mortgage value to register it, plus AED 250 for the title deed and AED 10 + AED 10 fees. The bank usually handles registration with DLD online. Bank arrangement and valuation fees vary by bank.
Quick example for an expat first-home buyer
For an AED 2,000,000 apartment as a first home, the maximum loan is AED 1,600,000 (80%), so you need at least AED 400,000 down plus the 4% DLD fee and other fees. Mortgage registration on AED 1,600,000 is AED 4,000. The monthly payment must keep your total debts within 50% of income. Illustration only; ask a bank for a real offer.
For agents: turn mortgage questions into closed deals
If you are a Dubai real estate agent, buyers will ask you these questions on the first call. The RealtorOne app helps you answer with confidence and keep the deal moving: the DealFlow CRM keeps every buyer in the right stage, Dubai DealRadar shows live DLD-open transaction data you can share, and SkillUp courses and Live Labs sharpen your calls. Track pre-approval as a stage in your CRM so no financed buyer goes cold.
Mortgage in Dubai for expats: FAQ
How much deposit does an expat need in Dubai?
At least 20% for a first home up to AED 5 million, 30% above that, 40% for a second or investment home and 50% for off-plan.
What is the maximum mortgage term in the UAE?
25 years.
Can non-residents get a mortgage in Dubai?
Some banks lend to non-residents, but the Central Bank limits above still apply; ask the bank about its criteria.