First-Time Buyer Mortgages in the UAE

Buying your first property in Dubai or the UAE? Our expert advisors make the process straightforward from day one.

Buying a property for the first time in the UAE is an exciting milestone, and the mortgage market offers strong options for new buyers, including LTV ratios of up to 80% on residential properties valued under AED 5 million. Understanding the rules, fees, and process before you begin can save significant time and money. Bradgate Heights specialises in guiding first-time buyers through every step, ensuring you make informed decisions and secure the best possible mortgage product.

FCA Regulated Advice

20+

UAE Lenders

80%

Max LTV

Free

Consultation

Why Choose Bradgate Heights

Up to 80% LTV

First-time buyers in the UAE can borrow up to 80% of the property value for purchases under AED 5 million, meaning a 20% deposit is all you need to get onto the property ladder.

Clear Fee Breakdown

We provide a comprehensive illustration of all costs, including the DLD fee, agent fees, and bank charges, so you know exactly what to budget for before you start searching.

Step-by-Step Guidance

Our advisors walk you through each stage of the purchase process, from choosing a property and making an offer through to signing the final DLD transfer documents.

First-Time Buyer Products

Several UAE lenders offer preferential rates or reduced arrangement fees specifically for first-time buyers, and we ensure you access every eligible product on the market.

How It Works

Check Eligibility

We confirm your first-time buyer status, review your financial profile, and calculate the maximum you can borrow based on UAE Central Bank debt-to-income guidelines.

Choose Product

We present first-time buyer mortgage options with a clear explanation of fixed versus variable rates and the total cost of each over your planned holding period.

Application

We compile and submit your full mortgage application, guide you through the mandatory property valuation, and manage all lender queries on your behalf.

Completion

We coordinate the transfer formalities with the seller, developer, and DLD to complete your first UAE property purchase as smoothly as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is first-time buyer status defined in the UAE?+

A first-time buyer in the UAE is generally someone who does not currently own a mortgage-secured property in the UAE. You may still qualify even if you own property abroad, as the definition is based on UAE mortgage records held by the AECB.

Can a first-time buyer purchase an off-plan property in the UAE?+

Yes, first-time buyers can purchase off-plan properties in the UAE. However, the mortgage structure for off-plan purchases differs from ready properties, with staged drawdowns linked to construction milestones, and it is important to understand these before committing.

What is the maximum mortgage term for a first-time buyer in the UAE?+

Most UAE lenders offer terms of up to 25 years for first-time buyers, subject to the borrower's age not exceeding 65 at the end of the mortgage term for salaried employees or 70 for self-employed borrowers.

What additional costs should I budget for as a first-time buyer in Dubai?+

In addition to your deposit, you should budget for the Dubai Land Department fee of 4% of the purchase price, a mortgage registration fee of 0.25% of the loan amount, a property valuation fee, and any real estate agent commission.

Do I need life insurance to get a first-time buyer mortgage in the UAE?+

Most UAE lenders require you to take out a decreasing term life insurance policy equivalent to the outstanding mortgage balance. This is often arranged through the lender, but you are generally free to source it independently at a potentially lower cost.

Ready to get started?

Speak to a specialist today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We compare 20+ UAE lenders to find the mortgage that is right for you.

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