UAE Mortgages for Expats
Everything you need to know about getting a mortgage as an expatriate in the UAE — eligibility, rates, and the application process.
Expatriates make up over 88% of the UAE's population, and the mortgage market is well-developed to serve expat buyers. UAE banks offer mortgages to expats with UAE residence visas, though specific rules apply. Key differences from UAE national mortgages: expats can borrow a maximum of 75% LTV (nationals get 80%), need a minimum 25% down payment on properties under AED 5M, and face a loan maturity cap of age 65 (vs. 70 for nationals). Despite these differences, the UAE mortgage market is very expat-friendly, with many banks specifically targeting expat borrowers.
Key Facts
| Maximum LTV (expats) | 75% (properties under AED 5M) |
| Minimum down payment | 25% (under AED 5M) / 35% (over AED 5M) |
| Maximum loan maturity age | 65 years |
| Minimum salary (most banks) | AED 15,000/month |
| UAE residency required | Yes (valid residence visa) |
| Non-resident option | Available at FAB (limited banks) |
Key Points
- All major UAE banks offer mortgages to expats — the market is well-developed for foreign nationals.
- A valid UAE residence visa is required. Non-resident mortgages are available only at FAB and a few others.
- Expat maximum LTV is 75% (nationals: 80%) — meaning you need a minimum 25% down payment.
- The loan must be fully repaid by age 65 (for expats) — so age at application affects maximum tenure.
- Salary transfer to the lending bank typically earns better rates and simpler approval.
- Mortigo specialises in expat mortgage applications and handles all documentation on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can expats get a mortgage in UAE?
Yes. Expats with a UAE residence visa, minimum salary of AED 15,000/month, and 6 months employment history can apply for a UAE mortgage. Maximum LTV is 75% (vs 80% for UAE nationals).
What documents do expats need for a UAE mortgage?
Typically: passport + UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, salary certificate from employer, 3-6 months bank statements, 3 months payslips, and property details. Mortigo confirms exact requirements per bank.
Can expats on short-term visas (2-year) get a mortgage?
Yes. The visa duration doesn't directly affect mortgage eligibility — what matters is your employment stability and salary. Many expats with 2-year renewable visas hold UAE mortgages.
What is the maximum loan amount for expats?
Maximum loan size depends on your salary and Debt Burden Ratio (DBR). UAE Central Bank rules cap total monthly loan repayments at 50% of gross salary. On AED 30,000 salary, maximum monthly repayment is AED 15,000.
Can I get a mortgage as a non-resident expat?
Non-resident (overseas) mortgage options are limited but available. FAB has the strongest non-resident mortgage program. Most other banks require UAE residency. Mortigo can advise on non-resident options.
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