Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our services and processes
For UAE nationals, the minimum down payment is typically 15% for properties valued up to AED 5 million, and 20% for properties above that value. For expatriates, the minimum is usually 20% for properties up to AED 5 million and 25% for higher-value properties.
Required documents typically include: valid passport and visa copies, Emirates ID, salary certificates, bank statements (6 months), credit card statements, proof of address, and property documents. Self-employed individuals may need additional business documentation.
Pre-approval can be obtained within 2-5 business days. Full mortgage approval typically takes 2-4 weeks from application submission, depending on documentation completeness and the chosen bank's processing times.
Yes, non-residents can obtain mortgages in the UAE, though with different terms. Non-residents typically need a higher down payment (usually 25-35%) and may face stricter eligibility criteria. The property must be in a designated freehold area.
LTV (Loan-to-Value) ratio is the percentage of the property value that the bank will finance. A higher LTV means a smaller down payment but potentially higher interest rates. UAE Central Bank regulations cap LTV at 80% for UAE nationals and 75% for expatriates on first properties.
Most UAE banks require a minimum credit score of 580-620 for mortgage approval. A score above 700 is considered good and may qualify you for better interest rates. Banks also review your overall credit history and existing liabilities.
Yes, but your total monthly debt obligations (including the new mortgage) must not exceed the DBR (Debt Burden Ratio) limit, typically 50% of your monthly income. Existing debt affects how much you can borrow for a mortgage.
Interest rates in the UAE typically range from 3.5% to 5.5% depending on the type of rate (fixed or variable), loan amount, down payment, and your profile. Rates are subject to change based on EIBOR (Emirates Interbank Offered Rate).
Fixed rates offer payment stability for a set period (typically 1-5 years), ideal for budgeting. Variable rates may start lower but fluctuate with market conditions. The best choice depends on your risk tolerance and how long you plan to hold the mortgage.
Yes, early settlement is permitted in the UAE. However, most banks charge an early settlement fee, typically 1-3% of the outstanding principal or a flat fee. Some banks waive this fee if you've held the mortgage for a certain period.
Mortgage-related fees include: property valuation (AED 2,500-3,500), bank processing fees (up to 1% of loan), mortgage registration (0.25% of loan), property registration (4% of property value), and insurance premiums.
The maximum loan amount depends on your income, existing debts, property value, and the bank's policies. Generally, banks can finance up to 7x your annual income, subject to LTV limits and DBR requirements. Use our calculator for an estimate.
DBR is the percentage of your monthly income that goes toward debt payments. UAE Central Bank caps this at 50%, meaning your total monthly debt payments (including the new mortgage) cannot exceed half your gross monthly income.
Yes, most UAE banks require life insurance that covers the outstanding mortgage amount. This protects both you and the bank. Property insurance is also typically required to protect against damage or loss.
Yes, you can obtain a second mortgage if you meet the eligibility criteria, including DBR limits. The down payment requirements for second properties are typically higher (25-35%), and interest rates may be slightly elevated.
The complete mortgage process typically takes 4-8 weeks from initial consultation to final disbursement. This includes pre-approval (2-5 days), property valuation (3-5 days), final approval (1-2 weeks), and documentation/registration (1-2 weeks).
In most cases, at least one bank visit is required for document verification and signing. However, we handle the majority of the process on your behalf, minimizing the number of visits you need to make.
Absolutely. We guide you through the entire pre-approval process, help gather required documents, and submit applications to multiple banks to find you the best rates and terms available.
After pre-approval, you can confidently shop for properties within your approved budget. Once you find a property, we proceed with the formal application, property valuation, final approval, and closing process.
The property valuation fee is typically paid by the buyer/borrower. This fee ranges from AED 2,500 to AED 3,500 depending on the property type and location. The valuation is conducted by a bank-approved surveyor.
If the valuation comes in lower than the purchase price, you may need to increase your down payment to cover the difference, renegotiate the purchase price with the seller, or explore other financing options.
While possible, switching banks mid-process can cause delays and additional costs. We recommend finalizing your bank choice early. However, if a significantly better offer arises, we can help you evaluate the switch.
Standard documents include: passport, visa, Emirates ID, salary certificate, bank statements (6 months), employer letter, property documents (MOU/SPA), and title deed. Additional documents may be required based on your specific situation.
Our consultation and mortgage advisory services are free for clients. We receive a commission from partner banks upon successful mortgage completion, which doesn't affect your rates or terms.
If one bank rejects your application, we analyze the reasons and may recommend alternative lenders with different criteria. Our relationships with multiple banks allow us to find solutions even in challenging cases.
UAE nationals, UAE residents (with valid residence visa), and non-residents can all apply for mortgages. Each category has different requirements regarding down payments, documentation, and property types.
Most banks require borrowers to be at least 21 years old at application. The maximum age at loan maturity is typically 65-70 years for salaried individuals and 70-75 years for self-employed/Business Owners.
Salaried employees typically need to have been employed for at least 6 months with their current employer (1-2 years for probationary periods). A minimum of 2 years total work experience in the UAE is often preferred.
Most banks require a minimum monthly salary of AED 10,000-15,000. Some banks may accept lower incomes with additional conditions. Higher incomes qualify for larger loan amounts and better terms.
Yes, self-employed individuals can obtain mortgages but with additional documentation requirements. You'll typically need 2-3 years of audited financials, trade license, and proof of stable income streams.
Business Owners can qualify for mortgages by demonstrating stable business income through audited financial statements, trade licenses, and company bank statements. The business should typically be operational for 2+ years.
Non-residents need a valid passport, proof of income from their home country, international credit report, and a higher down payment (typically 25-35%). Properties must be in designated freehold areas.
Yes, you can include your spouse's income to qualify for a higher loan amount. This is called a joint application. Both applicants will be co-borrowers and jointly responsible for the mortgage.
Recent job changes can affect your application. Most banks prefer 6+ months with current employer. However, if you're in the same industry and have a higher salary, some banks may be flexible.
Yes, but your credit card debt counts toward your DBR calculation. High credit card utilization can affect your credit score and borrowing capacity. Paying down debt before applying can improve your options.
Upfront costs include: down payment (15-25% of property value), Dubai Land Department fee (4% + AED 580), agency commission (2%), mortgage registration (0.25% of loan), bank processing fee (up to 1%), and valuation fee (AED 2,500-3,500).
Bank processing fees typically range from 0.5% to 1% of the loan amount, with a minimum of AED 2,500-5,000. Some banks offer reduced or waived processing fees during promotional periods.
Property valuation fees range from AED 2,500 to AED 3,500 depending on the property type, size, and location. This fee is paid upfront and is non-refundable, regardless of whether the mortgage is approved.
Dubai Land Department charges 4% of the property purchase price plus AED 580 for the title deed transfer. For mortgage registration, there's an additional fee of 0.25% of the loan amount plus AED 290.
We ensure full transparency about all costs. Common fees include: insurance premiums, trustee fees (AED 2,000-4,000), NOC charges (varies by developer), and property handover fees. We provide a complete cost breakdown upfront.
Our mortgage advisory services are completely free for clients. We earn a commission from partner banks upon successful mortgage completion, which has no impact on your interest rates or terms.
Early settlement fees in the UAE are capped at 1% of the outstanding principal or AED 10,000 (whichever is lower) for reducing balance loans. Some banks have promotional periods with no early settlement fees.
Refinancing costs include: new bank processing fee, valuation fee, mortgage discharge fee (AED 1,000-2,000), new mortgage registration (0.25%), and potentially early settlement fee to the existing bank.
We offer comprehensive financial services including: residential mortgages, commercial property financing, business loans, account opening assistance, Golden Visa facilitation, company formation support, and corporate banking solutions.
Yes, we assist with opening personal and business bank accounts across our partner banks. We help prepare documentation, submit applications, and liaise with banks to expedite the process.
Yes, we provide Golden Visa facilitation services. Property investors meeting the minimum investment threshold (AED 2 million) may qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa. We guide you through the entire application process.
Yes, we connect businesses with suitable financing solutions including working capital loans, equipment financing, trade finance, and business expansion loans through our network of partner banks and financial institutions.
We specialize in commercial property financing for offices, retail spaces, warehouses, and mixed-use developments. Commercial mortgages typically require 25-35% down payment with terms up to 15 years.
Yes, we offer company formation assistance for mainland and free zone entities. Our services include business structure consultation, license application, visa quota setup, and corporate bank account opening.
We partner with all major UAE banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, DIB, Mashreq, RAKBANK, FAB, ENBD, and several international banks. This allows us to find the best rates and terms for your specific needs.
Yes, our relationship continues beyond mortgage completion. We assist with refinancing when better options become available, property revaluations, additional financing needs, and general financial advisory.
Still Have Questions?
Can't find what you're looking for? Our team is here to help with any questions about mortgages, financing, or our services.