Home Mortgages in Dubai 2026: Eligibility, Key Factors, and the Role of Mortgage Brokers
Home mortgage demand is increasing with a surge in immigration driven by better economic opportunities in Dubai. According to DXBinteract, the city’s population has surpassed the 4 million mark and is expected to reach 5 million by 2030.
DXBinteract’s AI-driven forecast further suggests that Dubai will require more than 300,000 new housing units in its next development phase—demand driven by both residents (UAE-nationals and expatriates) and non-residents as they contribute to the growing housing demand in Dubai.
Residents (UAE-nationals and expatriates) and non-residents both can apply for home mortgages with slightly different requirements. Residents get home loans under more flexible terms, while non-residents face stricter conditions like higher down payment requirements etc.
One thing is clear: home mortgages are becoming a priority for people across all demographics in UAE. But how exactly do residents and non-residents obtain mortgages in Dubai in 2026?
Home Mortgage in Dubai for UAE Residents and Non-Residents in 2026
Home mortgage is a financing solution for individuals to purchase properties borrowing from lenders, typically banks etc. before loan approval, banks evaluate the applicant’s financial credibility by assessing key eligibility factors like income, employment stability, and residential status etc.
Since mortgages play an integral role in securing property with affordable monthly installments, many individuals rely on mortgage brokers to navigate this process by connecting clients with suitable lenders with the best mortgage terms.
The Dubai real estate market recorded a rise in mortgage transactions in July 2025. With an increase in buyer’s confidence, this trend of investing in the Dubai property market is strengthened by rising property demand and relatively lower interest rates.
Terms and conditions for the residents and non-residents for the home mortgage in Dubai differ, such as:
Mortgage in Dubai for Residents (UAE nationals & Expats):
UAE residents are increasingly applying for home mortgages in Dubai because of stronger rental yields and steady capital appreciation. Investing in property has become an attractive way for residents to build long-term passive income.
Lenders set specific employment conditions and income to meet the eligibility criteria for residents though they enjoy many advantages over non-residents like comparatively lower down-payment requirement, better interest rates and flexible eligibility criteria.
Contact a mortgage broker for proper guidance about different lenders, their eligibility checks and proper documentation etc. Working with a trustworthy and experienced mortgage advisor can significantly streamline the process – making it easier to secure the best home loan in Dubai.
Home Mortgages for Expats (UAE Resident Foreign Nationals)
One of the most common and significant questions is: Can expatriates get a mortgage in Dubai?
Expats are a larger part of Dubai’s demographics, which is expected to increase. So individuals are keen to get information on how they can get home mortgages.
Definitely, expats can apply for the home mortgages typically with down payments ranging from
25% to 40%. Other essential and bank-specific criteria for approval include stable income, legal residency and compliance.
Eligibility Criteria for Expats
Being an expatriate, when you try to secure a mortgage loan, lenders will assess your residence status, employment type and financial stability; however, the requirements may vary between banks with several industry-wide standards apply.
Most UAE banks maintain an approved list of employers of reputable companies for assessment of their better financial stability. The employees from these companies get comparatively better interest rates and higher loan-to-value (LTV) ratios. Applicants, whose employers are not listed, can still qualify, but may face stricter conditions.
Whether an individual is a salaried person, freelancer or self-employed, the bank reviews their employment status to evaluate long-term income stability. A salaried person is typically required to show at least 6 months of continuous employment. Freelancers and self-employed applicants may need to provide 2-3 years of audited financial statements, bank statements demonstrating a consistent business income and a valid trade license.
Home Mortgage in Dubai for Non-Residents:
Non-residents can also apply for mortgages in Dubai, mainly for investment properties or second homes.
Eligibility Criteria for Non-Residents:
Non-residents (foreigners living outside the UAE) buyers can apply for mortgages, but lenders usually have stricter criteria for them in comparison to resident borrowers. Non-resident’s essential documents include valid passports, around six months of foreign bank statements and proof of good credit history.
The perceived higher risk is the main reason for banks offering lower loan-to-value (LTV) ratios, which is generally around 60-65% of the property value. It means the buyer will submit a larger down payment of roughly around 35-40% or more. So, the non-residents’requirements include:
- Passport copy
- 6 months foreign bank statements
- Good credit history
- LTV = 60–65% (the bank finances 60–65%)
- Down payment = 35–40% (the buyer pays 35–40%)
In comparison to the UAE residents, non-resident mortgages face higher mortgages reflecting
additional lender risk and market conditions.
Factors Impacting the Home Mortgage in Dubai
Interest Rates:
Dubai banks offer competitive interest rates on home mortgages. In this context, the customer’s residential status (resident or non-resident), eligibility criteria and borrowing capacity matter aligning with the bank’s credit policy and UAE Central Bank regulations.
Government Initiatives:
The government’s initiatives are remarkable in turning the country from an oil-dependent economy to a booming real estate market. Investor-friendly policies and the Golden Visa scheme have attracted many high-net-worth investors ready to buy and sell property in Dubai.
Tools to Check Mortgage Affordability:
Mortgage Calculator:
Affordability is a major factor influencing mortgage eligibility, and mortgage calculators help residents and non-residents calculate their finances in Dubai. Simply, use this calculator and evaluate your affordability factors.
Mortgage Stress Test:
Banks assess affordability through stress tests to analyse whether a buyer can handle repayments if interest rates will increase. Factors such as residency status, salary, employer profile, and credit history play a significant role in determining mortgage eligibility.
Role of Mortgage Broker:
Investment requires trust in the broker to guide clients on mortgage loans by offering the best options available to them based on their finances.
How to choose a mortgage broker in Dubai?
Choosing a broker involves evaluating several key factors tailored to your specific investment needs and goals. Key considerations include:
- A broker’s regulatory compliance and reliability
- Associated fees
- Customer Support
- Quality of mortgage tools
A trustworthy mortgage service serves as a trusted partner between buyers and lenders. It simplifies the process of buying and selling properties.
Conclusion:
Thousands of global investors prefer to invest their finance in the Dubai real estate market because they have smooth and prospering economic opportunities. General understanding is required about the requirements to apply for a home mortgage.
Interest rates, residential status, employment status, down payments are influential factors impacting acceptance of home mortgages for residents and non-residents; however, residents (UAE Nationals and expatriates) and non-residents
While UAE residents enjoy advantages such as lower down payments and interest rates, major banks also cater to non-residents. However, they face stricter criteria, higher deposits, and enhanced documentation requirements.
The expertise of a reliable mortgage broker, such as Amity Mortgages, is invaluable for navigating the complexities, ensuring compliance with UAE Central Bank regulations, and securing optimal loan terms. Ultimately, careful planning and professional guidance are key to successfully financing your property investment in the thriving Dubai landscape.
FAQ
Can expats get a mortgage in Dubai?
Dubai’s government offers many mortgage options for expats with fixed and variable interest rates. Fixed terms are typically 5 years long, but they can be as short as 1 year. These deals vary from bank to bank.
Who is eligible for a mortgage loan in the UAE?
Either a resident of the UAE making at least AED 15,000 or a UAE national making at least AED 10,000. A foreign national who has worked in the United Arab Emirates for a minimum of three years, including at least one year in their current position. At the time of loan maturity, the borrower must be 65 or older if salaried or 70 or older if self-employed.
What is the 3 7 3 rule for a mortgage?
The 3/7/3 Rule is established by TRID, which specifies how long the LE must be issued following an application (3 days), how long must pass between the LE’s issuance and the loan’s potential closing date (7 days), and how far in advance of closing the CD must be issued (3 days).
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial, legal, or investment advice. Amity Mortgages acts as an independent mortgage brokerage and does not provide lending directly. While we strive to ensure accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding completeness or reliability. Readers should always seek professional advice tailored to their individual circumstances before making financial decisions.
Also Read: Is Mortgage A Liability?
