Mashreq Bank vs First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) — UAE Mortgage Comparison
Mashreq Bank and First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) are two of the UAE's most prominent lenders, but with very different strengths. Mashreq prioritises speed and digital innovation, with one of the fastest pre-approval timelines in the market. FAB is the UAE's largest bank by assets with dominant Abu Dhabi coverage and a market-leading non-resident mortgage programme. This comparison helps you identify which bank suits your profile.
| Category | Mashreq Bank | First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) |
|---|---|---|
| Best fixed rate (1-year) | 3.59% p.a. | 3.59% p.a. |
| Best variable rate | EIBOR + 1.85% | EIBOR + 1.85% |
| Maximum LTV (expat) | 75% | 75% |
| Maximum tenure | 25 years | 25 years |
| Minimum salary | AED 15,000 | AED 15,000 |
| Processing fee | 0.5–1% (negotiable) | 1% |
| Pre-approval speed | 1–2 business days | 3–5 business days |
| Non-resident programme | Available | Excellent (market-leading) |
| Abu Dhabi coverage | Good | Dominant |
| Mortgage buyout programme | Aggressive (top priority) | Standard |
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Verdict
Mashreq and FAB are evenly matched on rates, but diverge on speed, service model, and specialisations. Mashreq wins on processing speed, fee flexibility, and refinancing aggressiveness — ideal for buyers who want the fastest possible timeline or are refinancing. FAB wins on Abu Dhabi coverage, non-resident lending, and total bank scale. Choose Mashreq for speed and refinancing; choose FAB for Abu Dhabi properties or non-resident purchases.
Bank Profiles
Read the full mortgage review for each bank to understand their rates, eligibility criteria, and product range:
- Mashreq Bank Mortgage Review — Full Rates & Eligibility
- First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) Mortgage Review — Full Rates & Eligibility
Also see: All UAE Mortgage Banks | More Bank Comparisons | Mortgage Calculator
Mashreq Bank vs First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB)
Mashreq Bank and First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) are two of the UAE's most prominent lenders, but with very different strengths. Mashreq prioritises speed and digital innovation, with one of the fastest pre-approval timelines in the market. FAB is the UAE's largest bank by assets with dominant Abu Dhabi coverage and a market-leading non-resident mortgage programme. This comparison helps you identify which bank suits your profile.
Verdict
Mashreq and FAB are evenly matched on rates, but diverge on speed, service model, and specialisations. Mashreq wins on processing speed, fee flexibility, and refinancing aggressiveness — ideal for buyers who want the fastest possible timeline or are refinancing. FAB wins on Abu Dhabi coverage, non-resident lending, and total bank scale. Choose Mashreq for speed and refinancing; choose FAB for Abu Dhabi properties or non-resident purchases.