Buying property in Dubai is a major milestone, whether you’re an expat settling into the UAE or an investor expanding your portfolio. For many buyers, a mortgage is the most practical way to finance a property. But if it’s your first time, the mortgage process in Dubai can seem confusing. At QBH Properties, we guide clients through the mortgage journey every day — helping them secure the right loan at the best rates with minimal stress. In this guide, we break down the exact steps to getting a mortgage in Dubai in 2025.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before you begin property hunting, it’s important to know whether you qualify for a mortgage. In Dubai, both residents and non-residents can apply for home loans. Most banks require salaried applicants to earn a minimum monthly income, usually between AED 10,000 and AED 15,000. If you’re self-employed, you may need to show two years of financial history. For non-residents, the process is more selective and loan amounts are usually lower. Banks also check your credit score, income-to-debt ratio, and employment status. A UAE credit score of 600 or higher is typically acceptable, but the higher your score, the better your rate.
Step 2: Get Pre-Approved by a Bank
Mortgage pre-approval gives you a clear picture of how much you can borrow. This allows you to search for properties within your budget and shows sellers that you’re a serious buyer. During pre-approval, the bank will ask for your documents, including passport, Emirates ID, visa copy, salary certificate or trade license, bank statements, and payslips. Pre-approval is usually valid for 60 to 90 days and can be renewed. At QBH Properties, we work directly with trusted banking partners to get you pre-approved quickly and reliably.
Step 3: Choose the Right Mortgage Type
In Dubai, there are two main types of mortgages — fixed-rate and variable-rate. Fixed-rate mortgages lock in your interest rate for a specific period, usually 1 to 5 years, providing payment stability. Variable-rate mortgages, on the other hand, are linked to the EIBOR (Emirates Interbank Offered Rate) and can fluctuate. While they sometimes offer lower initial rates, they come with the risk of rate increases in the future. Choosing the right mortgage depends on your risk tolerance, future plans, and market conditions. Our advisors at QBH Properties can help compare options and explain what’s best for your situation.
Step 4: Find the Right Property
Once you’re pre-approved and understand your financing options, the next step is to choose a property that fits your goals. Whether you’re buying to live or invest, the property must meet the bank’s lending criteria. The bank will carry out a professional valuation of the property before approving your final loan. If the valuation is lower than the asking price, you may need to make up the difference in cash. That’s why it’s important to work with a knowledgeable agency that negotiates fairly and ensures you don’t overpay. At QBH Properties, we only work with clean-title, bank-verified listings to protect our clients.
Step 5: Finalize Your Down Payment
In Dubai, the required down payment varies depending on your residency status and the property price. For UAE residents buying their first property under AED 5 million, the minimum down payment is 20 percent. For non-residents, it’s 25 percent. Luxury properties above AED 5 million may require higher deposits. Down payments must be paid from your personal funds and cannot be borrowed. Make sure to also budget for DLD fees (4 percent), agency commission (around 2 percent), and other administrative costs like the title deed and mortgage registration fee.
Step 6: Submit Final Loan Application
After choosing your property and paying the initial deposit, your agent and bank will prepare the final loan file. The bank will re-verify your documents and confirm the valuation. Once approved, you’ll receive a Letter of Offer outlining the loan amount, interest rate, and repayment terms. Read it carefully before signing. The mortgage registration fee (0.25 percent of the loan amount) is also due at this stage. This is a government fee and is paid to the Dubai Land Department.
Step 7: Complete Transfer and Move In
Once the bank disburses the loan amount, the sale is registered with the DLD, and the property is transferred to your name. You’ll receive your title deed and can officially move in or rent out the property. If the property is off-plan, the mortgage is linked to the payment plan, and the bank releases funds according to the developer’s construction milestones. If it’s ready, you can take possession right after transfer. From here on, your monthly mortgage payments begin, and you are a property owner in Dubai.
Final Thoughts
Securing a mortgage in Dubai is a straightforward process when you have the right guidance. The key is being prepared, staying organized, and working with professionals who understand the system. At QBH Properties, we work hand-in-hand with buyers and banks to make the process smooth, clear, and secure. Whether you’re buying your first home or investing in your fifth, our team can help you find the right property and the right loan — without unnecessary delays or confusion. Ready to explore mortgage-backed property options in Dubai? Contact us today and we’ll help you take the next confident step toward ownership.