Are you planning to buy your dream home or invest in Dubai’s thriving real estate market? Securing a mortgage in Dubai is a critical step for most property buyers. With recent regulatory changes and competitive financing options, understanding the process is essential to make informed decisions. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about mortgages in Dubai.

Why Choose Dubai for Property Investment?
Dubai remains one of the most attractive real estate markets globally for both residents and international investors. Key reasons include:
- High Rental Yields: Average rental yields of 5-8% annually.
- Tax-Free Environment: No capital gains or property taxes.
- Freehold Properties: Available for expats in designated areas.
- Investor-Friendly Regulations: Flexible financing options and transparent processes.
Step-by-Step Process to Get a Mortgage in Dubai
1. Understand the Types of Mortgages
Dubai offers various mortgage options tailored to different needs:
- Fixed-Rate Mortgages: Stable interest rates for a fixed period (1–5 years).
- Variable-Rate Mortgages: Rates fluctuate based on the UAE Central Bank’s base lending rate.
- Islamic Mortgages: Shariah-compliant financing where banks purchase the property and lease it back to you.
Tip: Consult a mortgage advisor to determine the best option based on your financial goals. Betterway Mortgage
2. Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, ensure you meet these basic criteria:
- Minimum Salary: AED 15,000/month (varies by bank).
- Down Payment:
- Expats: 20% for properties under AED 5M; 30% for properties above AED 5M.
- UAE Nationals: 15% for properties under AED 5M; 25% for properties above AED 5M.
- Debt-to-Income Ratio: Monthly debt payments should not exceed 50% of your income.
- Credit Score: A good credit history is crucial for approval.
3. Get Pre-Approval
Pre-approval helps you understand how much you can borrow and shows sellers that you’re a serious buyer. To get pre-approved:
- Submit documents like salary certificates, bank statements, and credit reports.
- Pre-approval letters are valid for 60–90 days.
4. Choose Your Property
Decide between freehold or leasehold properties based on your preferences. Factors to consider:
- Location
- Developer reputation
- Projected return on investment (ROI)
5. Compare Mortgage Offers
Evaluate different banks and their offerings:
| Bank | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Emirates NBD | Flexible home loans with fixed and variable interest rates. |
| Mashreq Bank | Competitive rates with quick approvals. |
| Dubai Islamic Bank | Shariah-compliant financing with profit-only payment plans. |
| HSBC | Attractive rates for expats and high-net-worth individuals. |
Interest rates typically range from 3.5% to 5%, depending on the loan tenure and applicant profile.
6. Submit Required Documents
For Salaried Individuals:
- Passport & Emirates ID copies
- Salary certificate & pay slips
- Recent bank statements (3–6 months)
For Self-Employed Individuals:
- Trade license & company documents
- Business bank statements (6–12 months)
- Audited financial reports (if required)
Recent Updates in Mortgage Regulations (2025)

As of February 2025, new rules require buyers to pay additional fees upfront, including:
- Dubai Land Department (DLD) Fees: ~4% of the property value.
- Broker Fees: ~2% of the property value.
These fees are no longer included in the mortgage amount, increasing the initial costs for buyers. For example:
- Property Value: AED 2M
- Down Payment (20%): AED 400,000
- Additional Fees (~6%): AED 120,000
Total upfront cost = AED 520,000
Tip: Plan your budget carefully to account for these changes.
Benefits of Working with Betterway Mortgages
At Betterway Mortgages, we simplify the mortgage process by:
- Offering expert advice tailored to your financial situation.
- Comparing multiple banks to secure the best rates.
- Assisting with documentation and pre-approval processes.
- Providing end-to-end support until you own your dream home.
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Conclusion
Getting a mortgage in Dubai is now more structured but requires careful planning due to recent regulatory changes. By understanding the process, comparing offers, and working with trusted advisors like Betterway Mortgages, you can navigate the market confidently and secure the best financing options.
Contact Betterway Mortgages today to explore how we can help you achieve your property goals! Betterway Mortgage
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