Question 1

Who can get a mortgage in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

Both UAE nationals and expatriate residents can get a mortgage in the UAE. UAE nationals typically qualify for up to 80% LTV on a first property under AED 5 million. Expats also qualify for up to 80% LTV on a first property under AED 5 million, but require a valid UAE residency visa. Non-residents can also apply for UAE mortgages but face stricter criteria, lower LTV limits (typically 50-65%), and fewer lenders. The CBUAE sets minimum eligibility criteria that all banks must follow.

Question 2

What is the minimum salary for a UAE mortgage?

Accepted Answer

Most UAE banks require a minimum monthly salary of AED 10,000 to AED 15,000 for mortgage applications. ADCB requires AED 10,000 for residents and AED 12,000-15,000 for expats. HSBC requires a higher minimum for Premier accounts. Emirates NBD typically requires AED 15,000. The actual amount you can borrow is governed by the CBUAE's Debt Burden Ratio cap of 50%, meaning total monthly debt obligations cannot exceed 50% of your gross monthly salary, regardless of which bank you use.

Question 3

What is the Debt Burden Ratio (DBR) for UAE mortgages?

Accepted Answer

The Debt Burden Ratio (DBR) is the CBUAE's cap on how much of your gross monthly income can go towards debt repayments. The current DBR limit is 50%. This means all your monthly debt obligations combined, mortgage repayment, car loans, personal loans, credit card minimums, cannot exceed 50% of your gross monthly salary. For example, on a AED 25,000 salary, your maximum total monthly debt commitments are AED 12,500. Banks calculate credit card obligations as 5% of the total credit limit, not the minimum payment.

Question 4

How much deposit do I need for a UAE mortgage?

Accepted Answer

The minimum deposit (down payment) for a UAE mortgage is set by the CBUAE. For expats buying a first property under AED 5 million: 20% deposit (80% LTV). For UAE nationals buying a first property under AED 5 million: 20% deposit (80% LTV). For properties at AED 5 million or above: expats need 35%, nationals need 30%. For a second property: expats need 40%, nationals need 35%. For off-plan properties: 50% for all buyers. Additional costs on top of the deposit include 4% DLD registration fee, 2% agency fee, and bank arrangement/valuation fees (typically AED 5,000-15,000).

Question 5

How much mortgage can I get on my salary in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

Your maximum UAE mortgage is determined by the CBUAE 50% DBR cap applied to your gross monthly salary. With no existing debts: on AED 15,000/month salary you can borrow approximately AED 1,450,000; on AED 25,000/month approximately AED 2,420,000; on AED 40,000/month approximately AED 3,880,000. These figures assume a 3.78% rate over 25 years. Any existing monthly obligations (car loans, credit cards) reduce these amounts proportionally. Use our eligibility checker above to get your personalised figure in 90 seconds.

Question 6

Can self-employed applicants get a UAE mortgage?

Accepted Answer

Yes, self-employed applicants can get UAE mortgages but face stricter documentation requirements. Banks typically require: 2 years of audited accounts or management accounts, 6-12 months of business bank statements, a valid UAE trade licence, proof of ongoing business contracts or revenue. Self-employed applicants often face higher rates or lower LTV limits than salaried employees at some banks. ADCB, Emirates NBD, and FAB are among the banks with established self-employed mortgage products. Our eligibility checker has a dedicated self-employed pathway.

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