Homeownership stands as the largest financial commitment most people will ever undertake. Therefore, the decision has to be carefully made. The booming real estate market of the UAE in 2025, along with favorable interest rates, presents a good opportunity for both local and foreign residents to pursue home purchases rather than live in rental accommodations. The essential knowledge of pre-requisites for home loans in UAE is required to both first-time buyers and investors. This guide provides comprehensive information about home loans in UAE, along with an overview of current Dubai home loan rates.
Why Buy Property in UAE?
Property investment in the UAE represents an excellent opportunity. Here’s why:
- Property ownership in the UAE is more accessible because the country has few restrictive conditions.
- Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi provide residents with superior infrastructure and expanding residential areas.
- There are numerous freehold properties in various regions of the UAE where Expatriates can acquire ownership.
- Property prices stay secured combined with rental earnings possibilities
Buying a home for long-term residence usually turns out to be less expensive than renting.
Types of home loans in UAE
The United Arab Emirates provides home loan options that serve various buyer requirements.
1. Fixed-Rate Mortgages
The interest rate for Fixed-Rate Mortgage maintains stability during a specific time frame, which typically ranges from one to five years. This loan option provides stable monthly payments to the borrowers.
2. Variable-Rate Mortgages
The interest rate of Variable-Rate Mortgages loan is linked to the EIBOR (Emirates Interbank Offered Rate), and thus it fluctuates. The initial cost might be lower, but the rate can potentially change.
3. Islamic Home Finance
The is an Islamic financial product and is based on Sharia law. The usual home loan products are called Ijara and Murabaha. Through this arrangement, the bank purchases the property and lets you pay back the amount in scheduled installments while avoiding conventional interest payments.
4. Buy-to-Let Mortgages
People who purchase properties for rental income purposes should consider this Buy-to-Let-Mortgages as a strategic financial option that allows them to invest in real estate while spreading cost over time.
5. Construction Loans
The option exists for people who want to construct their own residence instead of purchasing an already-built house. Construction loans provide funds in stages. Borrowers make interest-only payments during the construction phase while the regular EMI starts after the house is ready.
Are you planning to invest in Dubai? Well, Check out the surprising reasons to invest in Dubai!
Updated Home Loan Rates in Dubai 2025
The average home loan rates offered by different banks in Dubai in 2025 is indicated in the following chart:
Bank | Fixed Rate (starting from) | Variable Rate |
Bank A | 3.59% | 2.99% + EIBOR |
Bank B | 3.75% | 3.25% + EIBOR |
Islamic Bank C | 3.49% (profit rate) | Not applicable |
The final home loan rates depend on factors such as your income and credit score, the property value and the required loan amount.
Eligibility Criteria for home loans in UAE

The basic requirements for obtaining home loans in UAE include the following conditions:
- Minimum age: 21 years old
- Maximum age: 65 years old if Salaried, 70 years old if self-employed
ii. Monthly income:
- Salaried: AED 10,000+
- Self-employed: AED 25,000+
iii. Documents required:
- Passport & Emirates ID
- Salary certificate or trade license
- Last 6 months bank statements
- Property documents
iv. Credit score: Higher than 650 points strengthens the approval possibility.
Loan Terms, Down Payment, and LTV Ratios
Some other factors related to the home loans in UAE are enumerated below:
i. Loan tenure: 5-25 years
ii. Minimum down payment:
- For Expats:
- Properties valued at AED 5 million or below:
Expats are required to make a minimum down payment of 20% of the property’s value. - Properties valued above AED 5 million:
The required down payment increases to 30% for properties priced over AED 5 million.
- Properties valued at AED 5 million or below:
- For UAE Nationals
- Flat 15% down payment for properties valued up to AED 5 million.
- 20% down payment applies if the property is worth more than AED 5 million.
iii. LTV (Loan-to-Value):
- Banks determine their financial support for property value through percentage rates.
- A larger down payment helps decrease the interest rate you will pay.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for home loans in UAE
- Your first step should be identifying a house that matches your financial requirements.
- Obtain a pre-approval from the bank, which remains valid for 60 to 90 days.
- The bank will determine the final loan terms not only based on the property’s specifications, but also by evaluating factors like your income, credit score, employment stability, and existing financial obligations.
- The bank officials inspect property and do a property valuation.
- The borrower consents to the amount and terms of the home loan.
- Execution of the loan agreement and other legal documents.
- The bank will release the loan funds.
- The property must be registered at the Dubai Land Department.
Tips to Get the Best Mortgage Deal in 2025
- Compare offers from multiple banks
- Check your credit score and work to enhance it, if necessary
- Make a choice between fixed-rate and variable-rate mortgages based on your future projections.
- Carefully read the terms to see if any undisclosed fees exist that may apply to early settlement or insurance coverage.
The United Arab Emirates presents abundant opportunities to homeowners and investors in 2025. The current property market expansion, combined with competitive mortgage rates, makes this an ideal period to pursue your dream of homeownership. Adequate knowledge about home loans in UAE is essential for a good deal, while the right partner serves as the differentiating factor in this path.
Galaxy Prime Mortgage is here to support you through your entire journey of home loans in the UAE.
FAQs on Complete guide for home loans in UAE
How much salary is required for a home loan in Dubai?
Usually, the minimum salary requirement for expats in Dubai for obtaining a home loan is AED 15,000 monthly.
How much down payment is required for a home loan in Dubai?
For a property worth up to AED 5M, the minimum down payment for expats is 20% and 15% for UAE nationals.
Is 20,000 AED a good salary in Dubai for a family?
AED 18,000 – AED 30,000 is considered a good salary in Dubai.
Can I have two mortgages in the UAE?
Whether you’re looking to expand your investment portfolio, consolidate debt, or fund home improvements, obtaining a second mortgage in the UAE is possible.
What is the loan limit in the UAE?
The maximum amount for a personal loan is 20x your salary and 15x the salary for Armed Forces staff.
Does Dubai charge tax on salary?
No, Dubai does not charge tax on salaries.