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UAE Mortgage Guide

A practical overview of eligibility, borrowing limits, approval steps, and common terms for UAE property buyers.

Eligibility

ApplicantTypical Requirements
UAE nationalsStable income, bank statements, credit review, and acceptable debt burden ratio.
Residents and expatsValid residency, salary or business income proof, minimum income thresholds, and credit history.
Self-employed buyersTrade license, audited financials or bank statements, and longer income review.

How much can you borrow?

Loan-to-value ratios vary by residency, property use, and whether it is a first home. A common planning baseline is up to 80% for first-home resident buyers, around 65% for many expat scenarios, and lower ratios for second homes or investment purchases.

Step-by-step process

  1. 1Review your budget and monthly payment comfort.
  2. 2Secure mortgage pre-approval from a bank or broker.
  3. 3Shortlist homes that match lender criteria and your deposit.
  4. 4Sign the memorandum of understanding and pay the deposit.
  5. 5Complete valuation, final bank offer, and transfer paperwork.
  6. 6Register the mortgage, transfer title, and collect the keys.

Glossary

LTV
Loan-to-value ratio, or the share of the property price funded by the bank.
DLD Fee
Dubai Land Department transfer fee paid during property registration.
NOC
No Objection Certificate from the developer before transfer.
Service Charge
Community or building maintenance charge paid by owners.
Escrow
Protected account used for regulated off-plan project payments.
Oqood
Initial registration for off-plan property purchases in Dubai.
Title Deed
Official ownership document after transfer registration.
Mortgage Registration Fee
Fee paid to register the mortgage against the property.

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