UAE Mortgages for First-Time Buyers
Your complete guide to buying your first property in the UAE — from eligibility and down payment to choosing the right bank.
Buying your first property in the UAE is an exciting milestone, but the mortgage process can feel complex without guidance. First-time buyers face the same eligibility rules as other buyers — minimum salary, down payment, and employment requirements — but often benefit from lower initial property values (reducing the down payment amount) and various bank promotions for new customers. Mortigo's advisors specialise in guiding first-time buyers through every step, from initial eligibility assessment to key handover.
Key Facts
| Minimum down payment | 20% (UAE nationals) / 25% (expats) |
| Lowest qualifying salary | AED 8,000/month (RAKBANK) |
| Minimum property value | AED 300,000 – AED 500,000 (bank-specific) |
| Best rate for first-timers | From 3.49% fixed |
| Process time (Mortigo) | Pre-approval in 48 hours |
| Advisor support | Dedicated advisor from application to completion |
Key Points
- UAE has no specific 'first-time buyer' government scheme, but some banks offer promotional rates for new customers.
- Starting with an affordable area like JVC or Jumeirah Lake Towers reduces the minimum down payment amount.
- RAKBANK's AED 8,000 minimum salary is the lowest threshold — accessible to a wide range of first-timers.
- Pre-approval first — know your budget before you start property hunting.
- Budget for additional costs: DLD fee (4% in Dubai), agent commission (2%), valuation (AED 2,500-3,500), and registration.
- Mortigo's advisors provide free guidance on eligibility before you submit any applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much deposit do I need for my first UAE property?
For properties under AED 5M: UAE nationals need a 20% down payment, expats need 25%. For a AED 800K apartment (affordable for first-timers), that's AED 160,000 for nationals or AED 200,000 for expats — plus additional transaction costs.
What is the minimum salary to get a mortgage in UAE?
RAKBANK accepts a minimum of AED 8,000/month. Most other banks require AED 10,000-15,000. Mortigo matches you to the right bank based on your salary level.
What is the mortgage process for a first-time buyer?
Step 1: Mortigo assesses your eligibility. Step 2: We submit pre-approval applications to matched banks. Step 3: You receive pre-approval (within 48 hours via Mortigo). Step 4: You find your property. Step 5: Full mortgage approval (5-10 days). Step 6: Registration and key handover.
Should I get pre-approved before viewing properties?
Yes — always. Pre-approval tells you exactly how much you can borrow, which sets your property budget. Sellers and agents take pre-approved buyers more seriously. Mortigo provides a letter of pre-approval for you to show developers and sellers.
What additional costs should first-time buyers budget for?
Dubai buyers: DLD transfer fee (4%), agency commission (2%), property valuation (AED 2,500-3,500), mortgage registration (0.25% of loan amount), and trustee fees (AED 4,000). Total transaction costs typically add 6-8% on top of the purchase price.
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