Prime Rate Hub – UAE Mortgage FAQs
Who can apply for a mortgage in the UAE?
UAE nationals, residents (valid visa), and non-residents with stable income from salary, business,
or rental sources.
As one of the best mortgage brokers in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, Prime Rate Hub helps first-time
buyers, seasoned investors, and overseas clients find the most competitive mortgage solutions.
What is the minimum down payment for home finance in the UAE?
Nationals: 15% (≤AED 5M) / 20% (>AED 5M)
Expats: 20% (≤AED 5M) / 25–30% (>AED 5M)
Commercial: 30–40% in most emirates including Abu Dhabi and Dubai
Non-residents: 40–50%
We guide clients on structuring their down payment to meet UAE Central Bank regulations while
securing the best bank offers.
What salary do I need to qualify for a mortgage in UAE?
Most banks require AED 10,000–15,000/month for expats and AED 8,000–10,000 for nationals.
We work with lenders across the UAE, including Abu Dhabi and Dubai mortgage providers, to
match your profile with suitable financing options.
How long does mortgage approval take in the UAE?
Pre-approval: 2–3 days; Full approval: 2 weeks post-valuation.
Our banking network allows us to fast-track mortgage approvals in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and other
emirates for qualifying clients.
Can non-residents get a mortgage in the UAE?
Yes. Non-residents can qualify by providing 6 months of bank statements, proof of income, a valid
passport, credit report, and a utility bill. At Prime Rate Hub, we arrange Dubai non-resident
mortgages and Abu Dhabi property finance solutions, and we also assist with UAE bank account
opening for non-residents to make the process smooth and hassle-free.
What are the age limits for getting a mortgage in the UAE?
Minimum age: 21. Maximum: 65 for employed expats, 70 for UAE nationals and self-employed
expats (some banks may extend expats to 70).
I am self-employed. Can I get a mortgage?
Yes. Many banks accept self-employed clients, especially if you have strong personal account
transactions, a healthy balance, and good credit history.
How do banks calculate mortgage affordability?
They use 50% of your monthly income, minus debts, plus a stress test.
Our mortgage advisors in Abu Dhabi and Dubai can help you maximize your eligibility by
structuring your finances efficiently.
Why should I use a mortgage broker?
To access more banks, exclusive rates, and expert guidance.
Prime Rate Hub compares offers from leading Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and UAE lenders to secure the
most favourable terms for you.
What is a mortgage broker?
A licensed professional who matches borrowers with lenders and negotiates terms.
As a trusted mortgage broker in UAE we handle the entire process, from application to Ownership
Can freelancers apply for a mortgage?
Yes, with 6–12 months’ bank statements and a trade license.
We work with banks in Abu Dhabi and Dubai that accept freelance income as part of mortgage
eligibility.
Can I finance the down payment?
No — UAE law requires it to come from your own funds.
However, Prime Rate Hub can help manage related fees and costs, offering creative financial
solutions for UAE property buyers.
Do down payment rules differ for commercial properties?
Yes — typically 30–40%.
Our team can connect you with commercial mortgage lenders in Abu Dhabi and Dubai who fit your
project needs.
What property types are eligible for home finance?
Apartments, villas, townhouses, approved off-plan, commercial buildings, and land with
construction plans.
We arrange financing for various property types across UAE
Can I get Islamic home finance?
Yes — through Shariah-compliant Murabaha and Ijara products.
Prime Rate Hub specializes in Islamic mortgages in UAE, available for both residents and non-
residents.
Can I get a mortgage for an unfinished property?
Yes, but only for approved off-plan projects.
We have access to Abu Dhabi and Dubai banks that finance select under-construction
developments.
Is a UAE credit report required?
Yes — AECB for residents; home-country report for non-residents.
We guide clients in UAE, and overseas on how to prepare these reports for a smooth mortgage
process.
Can overseas income be used for qualification?
Yes, but some banks cap it at 50% of total income.
We work with UAE mortgage providers for non-residents who have overseas earnings.
Can I buy jointly with a non-spouse?
Yes — up to 4 co-buyers.
Our team can structure joint mortgages in UAE for families and business partners.
Does Golden Visa eligibility include mortgaged properties?
Yes — you can qualify for the UAE Golden Visa with a mortgaged property if you have at least AED
2 million equity paid from your own funds. Mortgages are allowed for the remaining balance.
At Prime Rate Hub, we don’t just arrange your mortgage or home loan — we also guide you in
structuring your home finance to meet Golden Visa requirements.
How we help:
- Secure mortgage options in Abu Dhabi and Dubai that qualify for Golden Visa.
- Ensure your equity contribution meets the AED 2M requirement.
- Support with property documentation and Golden Visa application.
When should I consider refinancing?
When interest rates drop by at least 0.75% or if you want to extend your term.
Prime Rate Hub helps clients in UAE identify the right time to refinance to save on monthly
payments or release equity.
Are early repayment penalties allowed?
Yes — capped at 1% (max AED 10,000) by law.
Our mortgage advisors can guide you on repayment strategies to minimize penalties with UAE
banks.
Can I rent out a mortgaged property?
Yes, as long as you continue meeting repayment obligations.
We advise property investors in UAE on maximizing rental income while managing mortgage
commitments.
What’s the difference between flat rate and reducing rate?
Flat rate charges interest on the original loan amount; reducing rate charges interest on the
remaining balance.
Our team compares UAE mortgage rates to find the structure that works best for you.
Why do UAE banks require a security cheque?
As a legal guarantee for repayment if you default.
We help clients in Abu Dhabi and Dubai understand legal obligations before signing mortgage
agreements.
Can my housing allowance help my mortgage eligibility?
Yes. If your employment contract includes a housing allowance, it can be added to your income for
affordability checks.
What is a title deed?
The official proof of property ownership.
Prime Rate Hub guides buyers in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and other emirates through the title deed
process from purchase to registration.
Can my spouse and I co-apply for a UAE home loan?
Yes — joint applications are allowed.
We arrange joint mortgages in Abu Dhabi and Dubai to maximize combined income eligibility.
Is life insurance mandatory for UAE mortgages?
Yes — although external policies may be cheaper.
We connect clients to Abu Dhabi and Dubai mortgage lenders that accept external life insurance
policies to lower costs.
What is an NOC in UAE property purchase?
A No Objection Certificate confirms the developer has no outstanding dues on the property. It is
required before transfer.
What is an MOU and why do I need it?
An agreement confirming sale price, deposit, and terms between buyer and seller.
We guide clients in UAE through MOU requirements to secure property deals.
What are the property purchase fees in the UAE?
Dubai: 4% transfer + 0.25% mortgage fee. Abu Dhabi: 2% transfer + 0.1% mortgage fee. Other
emirates: 2–4%. These fees apply whether you are buying in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, or other emirates,
and our mortgage experts can guide you on the exact costs for your location.
What happens during my consultation?
We review eligibility, payment schedules, and required documents.
Our team provides tailored advice for UAE mortgage applicants, ensuring a smooth approval
process.
Can I get a mortgage to finance my handover payment?
Yes — available for both residents and non-residents.
We specialize in arranging handover payment mortgages in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, ensuring a
smooth property transfer.
Can my bonus be taken into account for my mortgage?
Yes — guaranteed bonuses are usually accepted; discretionary ones may be considered.
Our advisors help ensure your UAE mortgage application includes all eligible income.
Can I release equity from my property as a non-resident?
Yes — typically up to 55% of the property value.
We arrange non-resident equity release mortgages in UAE for investment or personal use.
What documents are needed for a mortgage in the UAE?
Passport, visa, Emirates ID, salary certificate, payslips, 6 months’ bank statements, proof of
address.
How does salary transfer vs non-salary transfer impact my mortgage?
Salary transfer gives the bank added security and may earn you a lower rate. Non-salary transfer
mortgages may have slightly higher rates.
What is EIBOR and how can I check these rates?
EIBOR is the Emirates Interbank Offered Rate, updated daily by the UAE Central Bank.
We help clients understand how EIBOR affects UAE variable mortgage rates.
Why should I get pre-approved for a mortgage before looking for a property?
Yes. You can leave the UAE as long as you keep up with your mortgage payments, though final
approval is always subject to your bank’s policy. Many overseas clients continue holding
properties in Abu Dhabi and Dubai while living abroad.
