UAE Mortgages for UAE Nationals
UAE nationals benefit from better mortgage terms — including higher LTV, lower down payments, and longer repayment periods.
UAE nationals (Emiratis) enjoy preferential mortgage terms compared to expatriates, as per UAE Central Bank regulations. Nationals can borrow up to 80% LTV (vs 75% for expats), need a minimum 20% down payment (vs 25%), and can repay until age 70 (vs 65 for expats). Additionally, UAE nationals may access government-sponsored home loan programs through entities like the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme and Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment, often at significantly subsidised rates. Mortigo compares both government and commercial bank options for UAE nationals.
Key Facts
| Maximum LTV | 80% (under AED 5M) / 70% (above AED 5M) |
| Minimum down payment | 20% (under AED 5M) / 30% (above AED 5M) |
| Maximum repayment age | 70 years |
| Government housing programs | Available (Sheikh Zayed, MBRHE) |
| Best commercial bank rate | From 3.29% (special national rates) |
| Salary requirement | Most banks: AED 10,000/month minimum |
Key Points
- UAE nationals can borrow 80% LTV (expats: 75%) — meaning a smaller down payment for the same property.
- Repayment age cap of 70 (vs 65 for expats) allows longer loan terms for older buyers.
- Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme offers subsidised home loans for eligible Abu Dhabi nationals.
- Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment (MBRHE) provides subsidised housing for Dubai nationals.
- Commercial banks offer special 'UAE National' rate packages, often 0.2-0.5% below standard rates.
- Government employees (federal and emirate-level) often access additional preferential rates from ADCB, ADIB, and FAB.
Frequently Asked Questions
What LTV can UAE nationals get?
UAE nationals can borrow up to 80% of property value for properties under AED 5M, meaning a minimum 20% down payment. For properties above AED 5M, the maximum LTV is 70% (30% down).
What are the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme rates?
The Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme (SZHP) in Abu Dhabi provides subsidised housing loans to eligible UAE nationals at very low or zero interest rates, subject to eligibility criteria and income thresholds. Mortigo can advise on government scheme eligibility.
Which bank is best for UAE nationals?
ADIB, FAB, and ADCB typically offer the most competitive terms for UAE nationals, with special rate packages and lower minimum salary requirements. Emirates NBD also offers competitive national rates.
Can UAE nationals get a mortgage for off-plan properties?
Yes. UAE nationals can finance off-plan properties from approved developers, with most banks offering construction-stage mortgages or developer installment plans.
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