# Dubai mortgages for UK and non-resident buyers

> Can a UK resident get a Dubai mortgage? Typical loan-to-value limits, the documents banks ask for, fees and how to compare, written for non-resident buyers.

Source: https://gemma-green.com/guides/mortgages-for-uk-and-non-resident-buyers/  
Author: Gemma Green, property consultant at McCone Properties, Dubai  
Last updated: 2026-10-30

1. [Home](/)
2. [Guides](/guides/)
3. Dubai mortgages for UK and non-resident buyers

Guide · Reviewed 2026-10-29

# Dubai mortgages for UK and non-resident buyers

What lenders typically offer, what they ask for, and how to prepare.

Yes, several UAE banks lend to non-residents, typically around 50 to 60 percent of the value, compared with up to 80 percent for resident expats buying a first home under AED 5 million. Off-plan lending is capped at 50 percent for everyone. Terms depend on the bank, your income and the property.

Short answer

## Typical lending limits

Typical loan-to-value (varies by bank; confirm current limits)

| Buyer | Typical maximum |
| --- | --- |
| UAE-resident expat, first home (owner-occupier) under AED 5M | Up to 80% |
| UAE-resident, second or investment home | Up to 60% |
| Any buyer, off-plan | 50% |
| Non-resident | Around 50 to 60%, sometimes up to about 65%, set by the bank |

The 80, 60 and 50 percent figures are Central Bank of the UAE caps for residents. The non-resident range is bank practice, not a Central Bank rule, so it varies by lender. Most UK investors will fall into the lower tiers.

## What banks usually ask for

- Passport and proof of address
- Recent payslips or accounts, and employment or business evidence
- Bank statements, often six months
- Credit report from your home country, where requested
- Details of the property and, once agreed, a bank valuation

## How to approach it

1. Get an in-principle view from a licensed mortgage broker before you start viewing.
2. Work out your total budget with the [mortgage calculator](/tools/dubai-mortgage-calculator/), including the stress test.
3. Make an offer subject to finance where appropriate.
4. Allow time for valuation and final approval before transfer.

McCone works with mortgage brokers, and Gemma can introduce you. Compare offers on rate, fees, early-repayment terms and whether the rate is fixed or variable.

## UK-specific points

Keep an eye on currency: your income is in pounds and the mortgage is in dirhams. A move in the exchange rate changes your payment in pounds. UK mortgage lenders do not generally lend against Dubai property, so most UK buyers use a UAE bank or fund from equity or savings.

## Frequently asked questions

Can a UK resident get a mortgage in Dubai?

Yes. Several UAE banks lend to non-residents, generally at a lower loan-to-value than for residents, typically around 50 to 60 percent.

How big a deposit do I need?

Plan for a deposit of roughly 40 to 50 percent as a non-resident, plus the purchase fees, and confirm the current limit with a broker.

## Keep reading

- [Mortgage calculator→](/tools/dubai-mortgage-calculator/)
- [Cost of buying→](/guides/cost-of-buying-property-in-dubai/)

General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Fees, lending rules and visa criteria change: check with the Dubai Land Department, your bank or a qualified adviser before you commit.

On this page

1. [Typical lending limits](#limits)
2. [What banks usually ask for](#docs)
3. [How to approach it](#process)
4. [UK-specific points](#uk)

Next step

## Prefer to talk it through? Message Gemma on WhatsApp.

[Message Gemma](https://wa.me/447535840084?text=Hi%20Gemma%2C%20I%20read%20your%20site%20and%20would%20like%20to%20talk%20about%20buying%20in%20Dubai.)

**Written by [Gemma Green](/about/)**, UK expat property consultant at McCone Properties, Dubai.  
Published 2026-10-30 · Last reviewed 2026-10-30. General information, not legal or financial advice.