Dubai continues to attract property buyers from all over the world. One of the most noticeable trends in recent years is the strong interest from international investors—particularly from the UK. British buyers see Dubai as a high-return, tax-friendly market with strong infrastructure and global appeal. 

The best part? You don’t need to have the full amount in cash to purchase a property in Dubai. You can apply for a mortgage from Dubai-based lenders, even as a non-resident. Many buyers from the UK finance their Dubai properties this way, and the process is straightforward if you know what to expect.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through who’s eligible, what documents you need, and the steps involved in getting a mortgage.

Eligibility Criteria for Getting a Mortgage in Dubai

Before applying, you’ll need to meet certain criteria. Here’s what lenders in Dubai typically look for:

1. Age

You must be at least 21 years old to apply. Repayments should be completed by the age of 65.

2. Income

Banks in the UAE typically require non-residents to maintain an average balance of at least AED 25,000 over a six-month period, although policies may vary from one bank to another.

3. Credit History

A good credit history helps. Lenders will check how you’ve managed loans or credit cards in the past. Missed payments, defaults, or high levels of debt can reduce your chances.

4. Debt-to-Income Ratio

This is how much of your monthly income goes towards debt repayments. A lower ratio is better. Lenders want to see that you can handle a mortgage on top of existing commitments.

5. Nationality and Residency

Mortgages are available to UAE nationals, residents, and non-residents. As a UK citizen, you fall under the non-resident category, which is fully supported by most banks.

6. Employment

Lenders prefer applicants with stable jobs or businesses. If you’re employed, long-term contracts or permanent roles help. Business owners will need to show consistent earnings.

7. Property Type

Most banks finance ready properties with a title deed. Off-plan properties may be financed if they’re approved by the bank. Land and non-residential units are harder to finance.

Documentation For UK Citizens To Buy Property in Dubai

For salaried non-residents of Dubai, the following documents are required to apply for a home loan to buy a property in Dubai from the UK: 

• Passport and Resident ID 
• Pay slips for 6 months to ascertain salary break up
• Visa/work permit if client is employed in 3rd country 
• Credit report
• Salary certificate (less than 1 month old)
• Residence address proof 
• 6 months bank statements to witness salary credits

How to Buy a Property in Dubai from UK?

The process of getting a mortgage in Dubai through My Mortgage is straightforward:

• Step 1: Visit My Mortgage website.
• Step 2: Scroll down and click ‘Secure your mortgage now’.
• Step 3: Fill out a short form with your personal and property details.
• Step 4: A mortgage advisor is assigned to you based on your application.
• Step 5: Your advisor reviews your case and compares mortgage options from different banks.
• Step 6: You’ll get personalised offers showing the interest rate, terms, and pros/cons of each lender.
• Step 7: Once you choose a lender, My Mortgage helps submit the documents to the bank.
• Step 8: They assist with signing agreements like the MOU and help open a UAE bank account.
• Step 9: Before you sign the offer letter, our team checks everything to make sure it’s accurate.

While you’ll have to be physically present to sign the offer letter, everything else can be done from the UK with remote support.

Final Thoughts

You can buy a property in Dubai from the UK using a mortgage, and the process is more accessible than many think. As long as you meet the basic requirements and have your documents ready, securing finance from Dubai-based banks is possible even if you’re a non-resident.

My Mortgage supports buyers from the UK as well as other international markets. Their team understands how to work across borders and makes the process as smooth as possible, no matter where you are. From start to finish, they help you navigate the mortgage system so you can secure your Dubai property with confidence.

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