Buying a property in Dubai is an exciting goal for many expats and UAE nationals. But before you start browsing listings, it’s important to know: how much salary do you really need to qualify for a home loan in Dubai?
In this guide, we’ll break down the minimum salary requirements, down payments, borrowing limits, and what banks expect from you in 2025 — so you can plan your purchase with confidence.
Minimum Salary to Buy Property in Dubai
Whether you’re an expat or a UAE national, most banks in Dubai recommend a minimum monthly salary of AED 10,000 to AED 15,000 to qualify for a mortgage.
- Some banks may approve slightly lower salaries if you have a strong financial profile.
- Higher property values or larger loans will usually require a higher monthly income.
How Much Down Payment Do You Need?
The minimum down payment depends on your residency status:
- Expats: Minimum 20% of the property price
- UAE Nationals: Minimum 15% of the property price
Example Calculation:
- For a property worth AED 1,500,000:
- Expats would need AED 300,000 upfront.
- UAE Nationals would need AED 225,000 upfront.
Note:
Down payment percentages are based on the property’s value. Additional costs like fees and commissions are separate.
How Much Can You Borrow?
Banks in Dubai offer different loan-to-value (LTV) ratios depending on your profile:
- Expats: Can borrow up to 80% of the property value.
- UAE Nationals: Can borrow up to 85% of the property value.
Example Calculation:
- AED 1,500,000 property:
- Expats: Eligible for a loan of up to AED 1,200,000
- UAE Nationals: Eligible for a loan of up to AED 1,275,000
What Are the Estimated Monthly Payments?
Typical mortgage terms in Dubai:
- Average interest rate: Around 4.25% (as of 2025)
- Loan term: Up to 25 years
Example Estimate:
- For a loan of AED 1,200,000 at 4.25% over 25 years, the monthly payment would be approximately AED 6,500 to AED 7,000.
Monthly payments include:
- Principal repayment (your borrowed amount)
- Interest charges to the bank
What Do Banks Expect From You?
When applying for a mortgage in Dubai, banks will assess your financial stability carefully. Here’s what they typically require:
For Both Expats and UAE Nationals:
- Proof of stable employment and regular income
- Clean credit history
- Salary certificate and/or 6 months’ bank statements
- Good Debt-to-Income ratio (below 50%)
- Complete property details
Specifically for Expats:
- Valid UAE residency visa
- Minimum employment period of 6–12 months (depending on the bank)
- Preferred minimum 6 months UAE residency (varies by bank)
Self-employed applicants may need:
- Company trade license
- 1–2 years of audited financial statements
- Company bank account statements
Ready to Start Your Dubai Property Journey?
Buying your dream property in Dubai is within reach — if you prepare the right way.
At Neo Realty Dubai, we help expats and UAE nationals navigate the home loan process, find the best financing options, and move confidently towards property ownership.
📩 Contact us today for a free personalized advice.
