White & Co Mortgage Advisory

Under current Central Bank rules, expats can typically borrow up to 80% loan-to-value (85% for UAE nationals) on a first property priced at or below AED 5 million. For properties above AED 5 million the cap is generally lower (around 70% for expats), and a second or subsequent property is usually capped lower again. Off-plan purchases are typically limited to about 50% LTV.

Arranging a mortgage in Dubai can be complex and time-consuming. An advisor understands the procedures and jargon, holds relationships across multiple lenders, and can compare offers and negotiate on your behalf rather than limiting you to a single bank's products.

Mortgage brokers in Dubai typically charge in the region of 0.4% to 1% of the loan amount. Separately, the DLD mortgage registration fee is 0.25% of the mortgage amount plus AED 290 in administrative costs. White & Co offers an initial consultation to discuss your situation.

The standard approval time for a mortgage in Dubai is around 2 to 6 weeks. Property valuation and loan underwriting typically take up to two weeks of that timeline.

Lenders generally require a copy of your passport, visa and Emirates ID, a salary certificate, around six months of pay slips and bank statements, recent credit card statements, and proof of address such as a DEWA bill or tenancy agreement.

Yes. White & Co advises overseas purchasers and non-residents as well as residents. Non-resident mortgages are available from several UAE banks, though loan-to-value limits are usually more conservative than for residents.

Under current Central Bank rules, total monthly debt repayments (including the new mortgage) are generally capped at 50% of your monthly income. This is a key factor lenders use to decide how much you can borrow.