If you live in Dubai, the rent you pay could turn into the mortgage instalment on your own property. We show both scenarios side by side, costs included.
Example scenario: a 1-bed apartment worth AED 1,100,000, bought with a mortgage of up to 80% of the property price (LTV in banking terms).
| Item | Renting | Buying with a mortgage |
|---|---|---|
| Cash paid upfront | Paying 1 year's rent upfront is common | 20% down payment (AED 220,000) + fees and costs |
| Monthly payment | Rent — renegotiated every year | Mortgage instalment — planned over the term |
| Term | Continues indefinitely | Terms of up to 25 years |
| What you own at the end | No asset remains | The whole property is yours |
| Service charges and maintenance | Usually paid by the landlord | Paid by you — we include them in our calculation from the start |
| Link to residency | None | Can count towards a Golden Visa if the threshold is met |
Interest rates and approval conditions vary by bank. Loan amount, term and interest depend on your income, residence status and the bank's assessment. The scenario on this page is indicative — we work out your personal instalment table in the consultation.
Because you earn income in the UAE, you have the widest options: a loan ratio of up to 80% of the property price and a term of up to 25 years. Payslips, bank statements and proof of residence are the basic requirements.
Investors living outside the UAE can also borrow from UAE banks; however, the down payment ratio is higher and the paperwork takes longer. The interest-free payment plan some developers offer on off-plan is often more advantageous.
The loan ratio table, the cost items beyond interest and the process from pre-approval to title deed are written out item by item in the Dubai mortgage guide — read it on the site or request the PDF version by email.
We will send — to your email address as a PDF. The full guide can also be read on the website.
A free 20-minute call with our advisers. Not a sales call — we look at your budget and your goals together.
Click for a free consultation
