Adil Raza Khan | October 29, 2025
Are you searching for – How Foreigners Can Apply for a Mortgage in Dubai? Foreigners can apply for a mortgage in Dubai by obtaining pre-approval from a bank in the UAE, providing valid identification and income documents, and choosing a property in a special freehold zone. Buyers of property in the UAE may be residents or non-residents, as banks will finance 60-75% of the property value, depending on the buyer's profile.
At Apil Properties, we focus on guiding foreign investors through the entire Dubai mortgage application process—eligibility checks to property registration. Our professional team guarantees a hassle-free, transparent, and compliant mortgage process that the local market has been supporting through years of experience and established developer relationships.
The following guide will explain exactly how foreigners can apply mortgage in Dubai, how they can be eligible, what documents they need, and the most recent regulations of 2025, all explained in simple terms by the best real estate agency company in the UAE—Apil Properties.
Yes, foreigners can get a mortgage in the UAE, especially in Dubai, where property ownership laws are very investor-friendly. Expats and non-residents can finance their property acquisition via the approved banks that provide mortgages in Dubai to foreigners, provided their income is verified and they make down payments.
As a resident, the Dubai mortgage on residents will provide up to 80 percent financing at competitive interest rates. On the other hand – the mortgage of non-residents in Dubai is on a 60%-70% property value with a little higher interest rate.
Understanding how foreigners can apply for a mortgage in Dubai begins with knowing the process. Here’s a simple, step-by-step breakdown:
Banks will approve, based on age, nationality, monthly income and credit history. The candidates should be above 21 and have a steady income. The property should also be situated in a freehold zone, which foreigners can own.
The Dubai mortgage application begins with pre-approval, which determines your capacity to borrow and the interest rate you can borrow. Pre-approval normally takes about 60-90 days and makes your search for property easier.
To continue the Dubai mortgage process, foreigners can only purchase within the freehold zones of Palm Jumeirah, Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, Dubai Marina, and JVC. Never leave without ensuring the property is bank-approved in case it is off-plan.
To complete your mortgage in Dubai, you’ll need:
If you’re wondering what documents do foreigners need to buy property in the UAE, these are mandatory for most banks and legal authorities.
The valuation done by banks is professional and establishes fair market value. The mortgage requirements in Dubai control the issuance of loans in a responsible manner that does not overvalue the real property.
Upon approval, you will sign the mortgage, pay down, and register your property at the Dubai Land Department (DLD). Your purchase will be finalized as the bank will then release money to the seller.
Applying to a mortgage in Dubai, as a foreigner, it is important to be aware of the financial side to it:
Remember - understanding the cost of buying property in Dubai for foreigners assists you with how to layout your investment clearly and transparently in order to evade unseen costs.
To get a mortgage in Dubai, Foreigners must sign an MoU, pay a 10 percent deposit, take out an NOC, undergo bank valuation and approval, and register the property with the Dubai Land Department.
Here is the breakdown:
All Dubai property mortgages require legal processes to be carried out in order to be transparent and to comply. These legal procedures of buying property in Dubai ensure the security of your investment and a comprehensive legal ownership.
Remember, before all this you must know how can foreigners buy property in Dubai 2025! Check out our guide!
Non-residents and residents of the country can obtain a mortgage in Dubai provided they fulfill all the requirements of a bank, including a stable income, valid passport, and a clean credit history. Most banks are willing to hire those aged between 21 and 65 with a monthly income of at least AED 15,000.
Note: Non-residents or self-employed buyers can have slightly different eligibility.
To apply for a Dubai mortgage for residents or foreigners, Banks usually demand a copy of a passport, visa, Emirates ID, salary certificate, bank statements (six months), proof of address, and property documents to submit an application for a Dubai mortgage to the residents or foreigners.
Applicants who are self-employed are required to submit trade licenses and audited financials. Getting all the documents in place is a sure way to have your Dubai mortgage application approved faster.
Ready properties require a minimum down payment of 20% to 25%. Meanwhile, off-plan properties require up to 50%. The precise value is based on income, status of residence, and the value of the property. Knowing this is important to enable foreigners to make good financial planning when applying for a mortgage in Dubai for non-residents or expats.
There are fixed rate, variable rate and Islamic home finance mortgages that foreigners can select in Dubai.
The mortgage type that suits you right will be based on your financial objectives and investment period in the UAE property market.
In 2025, mortgage interest rates in Dubai typically range between 3.5% and 5.5% annually, depending on the bank, loan term, and applicant profile. Foreigners with better credit scores and stable incomes may be offered a lower rate.
In addition to the down payment, some bank processing fees (up to 1%), valuation charges (AED 2,500-3,000), life insurance, and the registration of the property with the DLD should also be included in the budget of foreigners.
Small penalties may also be payable to early settlement or refinancing. This information has been useful to applicants as they are in a position to know their overall cost before they can apply to a mortgage in Dubai.
An average mortgage application in Dubai will require 2-4 weeks between filling the mortgage application and its approval, depending on the completeness of the documents and the speed at which the bank handles it.
Timelines can be influenced by valuation, legal checks, and credit checks. Hiring Apil Properties also takes the hassle out of the process so that foreigners can have their mortgages approved quicker and without any unexpected delays.
Most UAE banks have no problem with international purchasers, although certain exceptions must be considered before a foreigner requests a Dubai mortgage.
Yes, but with conditions. The banks in Dubai normally offer mortgages on off-plan properties only after some level of construction has been attained (usually 50 percent or more) and when the developer is listed in the bank's approved list.
Otherwise, the buyers may choose the developer-sponsored payment plans as opposed to the traditional mortgage financing.
Yes, non-residents cannot get stricter loan terms. Most banks demand a greater down payment (30 to 40 per cent), restrict the loan tenure to 20 years, and, in some cases, require better income verification of people living in foreign countries.
But in the case of Apil Properties, foreign investors can easily find banks that specifically serve non-resident mortgage Dubai applicants – which ensures compliance and convenience.
Some properties do not qualify for financing under UAE mortgage for foreigners requirements. These include:
In such situations, Apil Properties helps clients with other funding options and verified developer plans that offer flexible installment structures.
Being the finest real estate firm in Dubai, Apil Properties provides a full package of mortgage assistance to both residents and non-residents. Our professionals do everything, including helping foreigners apply for mortgages in Dubai, transferring titles, and providing post-sale services.
With connections to major banks and developers, we can get the best rates, least down payments, and established projects. At Apil Properties, getting a mortgage in Dubai is easy, quick, and entirely within the law of the UAE.
However, the current management can assist you in purchasing property in Dubai using secure and convenient mortgage packages best suited to international investors.
Final Thoughts
The answer to the question of how foreigners can apply for a mortgage in Dubai is the key to opening up investment opportunities in one of the world's most lucrative and safest real estate markets. Whether you are a resident of the UAE or a foreign investor, Dubai offers clear-cut financing, safe ownership, and unparalleled ROI potential.
Partner with Apil Properties today — your trusted guide to buying property in Dubai through safe and flexible mortgage options tailored for global investors.
Yes, foreigners can get a mortgage in the UAE through approved banks that finance property purchases in Dubai’s freehold zones.
Yes, with proper income proof, credit history, and guidance from experts like Apil Properties, expats can easily secure a mortgage in Dubai.
Most banks require a minimum monthly salary of AED 15,000 for mortgage eligibility.
Yes, non-residents can apply, though banks may require a larger down payment (30–50%) and additional documents.
The maximum mortgage tenure in Dubai is typically 25 years, depending on the borrower’s age and income.
Some banks finance off-plan projects, but most prefer completed or nearly completed developments for foreign buyers.
Foreigners usually need a 20%–25% deposit for ready properties and up to 50% for off-plan units.
Yes, some banks offer non-resident mortgages, but the terms are stricter with higher down payments.
Yes, having a UAE bank account is typically required for mortgage payments and loan disbursement.
Apil Properties is one of the best real estate agencies in Dubai, helping foreigners secure the most suitable mortgage and property deals.
WRITTEN BY
Adil Khan is a Dubai luxury real estate expert with over 13 years of experience in the UAE property market. He is the Chairman of APIL Properties.
Are you searching for – How Foreigners Can Apply for a Mortgage in Dubai? Foreigners can apply for a mortgage in Dubai by obtaining pre-approval from a bank in the UAE, providing valid identification and income documents, and choosing a property in a special freehold zone. Buyers of property in the UAE may be residents or non-residents, as banks will finance 60-75% of the property value, depending on the buyer's profile.
At Apil Properties, we focus on guiding foreign investors through the entire Dubai mortgage application process—eligibility checks to property registration. Our professional team guarantees a hassle-free, transparent, and compliant mortgage process that the local market has been supporting through years of experience and established developer relationships.
The following guide will explain exactly how foreigners can apply mortgage in Dubai, how they can be eligible, what documents they need, and the most recent regulations of 2025, all explained in simple terms by the best real estate agency company in the UAE—Apil Properties.
Palm Jebel Ali is one of Dubai’s most famous man-made islands, spanning 13.4 square kilometres—almost twice the size of Palm Jumeirah. Designed with multiple fronds, a crescent breakwater, and a central trunk, it’s set to host luxury villas, apartments, resorts, and marinas, creating a next-generation waterfront community for families, investors, and tourists alike.
The waterfront community by Nakheel is back in the limelight as one of the most ambitious island communities ever developed. It's finally re-launched under the Dubai 2040 Vision! As of early 2025, the revival has already sparked massive investor interest — with property transactions exceeding AED 11.3 billion in early 2025, accounting for nearly 19% of Dubai’s total real estate sales in April 2025.
For investors seeking exclusive access, APIL Properties - an authorised agency in Dubai can assist you in buying Palm Jebel Ali properties for sale. Best part? The buyers are guaranteed a premium location in this next-generation landmark.
But before that, let the experts at APIL guide you through all you need to know this year about this iconic island.
One of the most common questions that are always asked by international investors venturing into the UAE is the Cost of Buying Property in Dubai as a foreigner.
Dubai is a global real estate destination with 100% foreign ownership, high rental rates, and zero property taxation per annum. As a first-time buyer or an experienced investor, there is a need to learn about the fees, taxation, and general cost of property in Dubai among foreigners before making the move.
At APIL Properties, we focus on assisting international clients with finding their way through the Dubai real estate market in 2025!
