Mortgages in Dubai: What Are the Differences Between Residents and Non-Residents?

🏡 Mortgages in Dubai: What Are the Differences Between Residents and Non-Residents?

Dubai has long been a magnet for international real estate investors. Not only because of its tax-friendly climate and high returns, but also thanks to a well-structured, transparent property market.

However, one topic that raises many questions among buyers is mortgage financing. So, what are the actual differences in terms and conditions between someone with UAE resident status (such as a Golden Visa holder) and a non-resident?

In this blog, we’ll provide you – the investor – with a clear overview of mortgage options in Dubai, so you know exactly what to expect and how to structure your purchase wisely.

✅ How Much Can You Finance?

🔹 Non-Residents:

As a non-resident, you can typically finance 50% to 60% of the property value.
In some cases, depending on your creditworthiness or the project, this can go up to 70%.

➡️ Example: For a property priced at AED 2,000,000, a non-resident can usually borrow a maximum of AED 1,200,000.

🔹 Residents (including Golden Visa holders):

If you hold a Golden Visa, banks consider you a UAE resident, which means:

• Up to 80% financing for your first property
• Up to 60–65% for a second or third unit

More financing means less capital required upfront, giving you the opportunity to diversify your portfolio across multiple properties.

📈 What Are the Interest Rates?

🔹 Non-Residents:

• Interest rates range from 4.25% to 5.25%, and in some cases even up to 6%
• Fixed interest is common for the first 1–3 years, followed by a variable rate
• Higher rates apply due to increased risk for the bank

🔹 Residents:

• Interest rates start from 3.85% to 4.50%
• More flexibility in choosing fixed-rate periods (sometimes up to 5 years)
• Lower rates thanks to Emirates ID and resident status

➡️ Over time, these lower rates can save you tens or even hundreds of thousands of dirhams.

⏳ What Is the Maximum Mortgage Term?

🔹 Non-Residents:

• Mortgage terms are generally allowed up to the age of 60 or 65
• If you're currently 45, a maximum term of 15–20 years is realistic

🔹 Residents:

• Maximum term of up to 25 years
• Age limit: 65 years (salaried) or 70 years (self-employed)
• More flexibility in repayment and loan structuring

📄 What Do You Need to Apply for a Mortgage?

🔹 Non-Resident Requirements:

• Valid passport
• Proof of income (e.g. salary certificate or audited financials)
• Bank statements (typically last 6 months)
• Sales agreement (SPA or MoU)
• Down payment of 30–40%

🔹 Resident / Golden Visa Holder:

• Emirates ID
• Passport
• Proof of income (within the UAE or abroad)
• Bank statements
• Optional: proof of rental income (for investment properties)

🎯 Why Choose a Golden Visa?

A Golden Visa opens many doors for investors in Dubai. Beyond long-term residency, business freedom, and visa-free travel, you also benefit from:

• Resident status for better mortgage terms
• Lower interest rates
• Higher financing (up to 80%)
• Longer repayment terms
• Access to full-featured bank accounts (including IBAN, debit cards, cheque book)
• The ability to finance multiple properties simultaneously

Read de PDF presentation here!