Off-Plan Property Mortgages in the UAE
Buyer Guide
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Off-plan mortgages finance properties that are not yet completed. The CBUAE caps off-plan mortgage LTV at 50% of property value for every purchaser category, purpose and property value, so the buyer contribution is at least 50% before transaction costs; a lender may require more. Product availability, project acceptance, disbursement timing and other terms vary by lender and should be confirmed in a written offer.
Overview
| Maximum LTV (off-plan; all purchaser categories) | 50% of property value under the CBUAE cap; lender terms may be stricter |
| Minimum buyer contribution | At least 50% of property value before transaction costs under the CBUAE LTV cap |
| Progressive drawdown | Released as construction progresses |
| Key approved developers | Emaar, DAMAC, Nakheel, Sobha, Meraas, Aldar |
Key Points
- Off-plan mortgages typically offer 1–2 year post-handover payment plans in combination with the mortgage.
- Bank approval depends on the developer and project — not all projects are approved by participating lenders.
- Interest is charged on drawn-down amounts only during construction — lower initial payments.
- Mortigo's developer-bank matrix identifies which banks finance which projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a mortgage for an off-plan property in Dubai?
A lender may offer finance for an eligible off-plan project. The CBUAE caps off-plan LTV at 50% of property value for every purchaser category, purpose and property value, so the buyer contribution is at least 50% before transaction costs; a lender may require more. Confirm project acceptance, disbursement timing and terms directly with the lender in writing.
Which UAE banks are best for off-plan mortgages?
Emirates NBD, FAB, DIB, and Mashreq are among the most active off-plan lenders. Each has different developer approval lists — Mortigo compares all to find the best option for your specific project.
What happens if I can't pay the off-plan mortgage during construction?
If you face difficulty, options include selling the off-plan unit, requesting a payment deferral, or restructuring the mortgage. Mortigo advises on all scenarios before you commit.
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Further Reading
Need the process rather than application support? Read the Dubai property handover guide from notice through valuation, transfer and completion.
Check your eligibility | All mortgage guides | Compare participating lenders
Overview
Off-plan mortgages finance properties that are not yet completed. The CBUAE caps off-plan mortgage LTV at 50% of property value for every purchaser category, purpose and property value, so the buyer contribution is at least 50% before transaction costs; a lender may require more. Product availability, project acceptance, disbursement timing and other terms vary by lender and should be confirmed in a written offer.
Key Points
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a mortgage for an off-plan property in Dubai?
A lender may offer finance for an eligible off-plan project. The CBUAE caps off-plan LTV at 50% of property value for every purchaser category, purpose and property value, so the buyer contribution is at least 50% before transaction costs; a lender may require more. Confirm project acceptance, disbursement timing and terms directly with the lender in writing.
Which UAE banks are best for off-plan mortgages?
Emirates NBD, FAB, DIB, and Mashreq are among the most active off-plan lenders. Each has different developer approval lists — Mortigo compares all to find the best option for your specific project.
What happens if I can't pay the off-plan mortgage during construction?
If you face difficulty, options include selling the off-plan unit, requesting a payment deferral, or restructuring the mortgage. Mortigo advises on all scenarios before you commit.
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