Getting started · 2 min read
How to Get a Mortgage in Dubai: A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting a mortgage in Dubai is more straightforward than most buyers expect — if you know the order of play. Here's the process, start to finish.
By Trevio ·
1. Check what you can afford
Start with your numbers, not the property. UAE banks cap your total monthly debt at 50% of your income, so your salary and existing commitments set your ceiling. Use our mortgage calculator for a quick estimate.
2. Get pre-approved
Pre-approval tells you how much a bank is willing to lend before you start viewing. It strengthens your offer and stops you falling in love with homes you can't finance. You'll need basic income and ID documents; approvals are usually valid for a limited window, so time it sensibly.
3. Find the property and agree the price
Once you've found a home, sign the sale agreement (Form F, for resale properties) and pay the deposit as agreed. Your down payment starts at 20% for most expats buying a first home under AED 5 million.
4. Valuation and final offer
The bank values the property. Your loan is based on the lower of the purchase price or the valuation, so a low valuation can mean a bigger deposit. The bank then issues its final offer.
5. Transfer, registration and disbursal
You pay the Dubai Land Department transfer fee and mortgage registration, then the bank releases funds and the property is transferred to you. Most straightforward cases take several weeks end to end.
Common mistakes
- Shopping before pre-approval — you risk a property you can't finance.
- Ignoring total costs — budget roughly 7–10% of the price on top of your deposit.
- Applying to many banks yourself — multiple credit checks can hurt your profile.
FAQs
How long does a Dubai mortgage take?
Pre-approval can take days once your documents are complete. Full completion typically takes a few weeks, depending on the property and bank.
Do I need to be a UAE resident?
No. Non-residents can also get mortgages, usually at a lower loan-to-value.
Can a broker help?
Yes. An independent advisor compares lenders and manages the paperwork, so you don't have to approach banks one by one.
Ready to start? Book a free consultation with Trevio and we'll map out your route to the keys.