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FAQs
1. Who is eligible for a home mortgage in the UAE?
Mortgage eligibility in UAE 2026 is open to residents (expats and UAE nationals) and non-residents. Generally, you must be at least 21 years old and have a minimum salary for home loan approval of AED 10,000 for salaried residents or AED 25,000 for self-employed individuals. Banks will also assess your AECB credit score and ensure your debt burden ratio (DBR) does not exceed 50%.
2. How much down payment is required for a property in Dubai?
For a first-time buyer (expat), the required down payment for property in Dubai is 20% of the purchase price for properties valued under AED 5 million. This corresponds to an 80% Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio. For UAE nationals, the down payment is lower at 15% (85% LTV). If the property is valued above AED 5 million, the required deposit for expats increases to 35%.
3. What are the total upfront costs of buying a home with a mortgage?
Beyond the down payment, the cost of buying property in Dubai includes several mandatory fees. You should budget for 4% DLD fees, a 2% real estate commission, and a mortgage registration fee of 0.25% of the loan amount. Additionally, banks charge a valuation fee (approx. AED 3,000) and a processing fee (typically 1% of the loan amount). These ratios are regulated by CBUAE.
4. Is it better to choose a fixed or variable interest rate in the UAE?
The choice between fixed vs variable mortgage rates depends on your financial goals. A fixed-rate mortgage offers interest rate stability for 1 to 5 years, protecting you from market spikes. A variable-rate mortgage is EIBOR linked, meaning your payments will fluctuate based on the daily UAE benchmark rates. Many borrowers in 2026 prefer a hybrid model: starting with a fixed rate and transitioning to variable.
5. Can I get a Golden Visa if my property is mortgaged?
Yes, you can qualify for a Golden Visa through property investment even if the property is under a mortgage. The total value of the property must be at least AED 2 million. Under current regulations, you can apply for the 10-year residency once the property is registered in your name, provided you have a Letter of No Objection (NOC) from your bank and meet the minimum equity requirements.