If you're a non-resident looking to buy property in the UAE, our Non-Resident Investment Guide will give you all the information you need to know before you start your property search.

The good news for investors is that there are several options available for a non-resident to get a mortgage in the UAE and take advantage of the fantastic property market.

Home loans are available to investors in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and possibly the Northern Emirates.

There are different levels of lending or loan-to-value available depending on the applicants profile and what documents they can provide.

50% LTV - Non-Resident Loan

If you are a non-resident wanting to get a mortgage in the UAE, the easiest way to do this would be at 50% LTV (loan-to-value)

In this case, the lending bank will usually require three months of bank statements showing a suitable average sitting balance over three months, as well as a copy of your ID and proof of address in your home country.

The balance of funds needs to be -

• Held in a personal bank account (current or savings). not a business account
• Maintaining a monthly average balance of more than 7,000 US Dollars

The bank will carry out their calculations to prove affordability and offer a 50% non-resident mortgage based on this.

60%+ LTV mortgage

Loans above 50% LTV are available but are more complex to achieve. The banks at this level will carry out more underwriting, and alongside bank statements, they may wish to see, among other requirements:

• 2 years of tax returns
• Personal income statements for 2 years
• Company registration documents, if applicable
• Home country credit bureau report
• Personal bank statements for up to 12 months
• Business bank statements for the past 12 months, if applicable

If the applicant has a good profile and can provide these documents, this is a good option, but be prepared for the lenders to carry out a more in-depth review as extended lending is seen as a higher risk.

We deal with hundreds of non-resident applications from all countries in the world. Our clients are looking to buy apartments and villas in the UAE and benefit from the tax-free rental yields of anything up to 8%.

You can access our mortgage calculator online to discover the best lending rates that are available for non-resident investors in the UAE.

Where can I invest in the UAE as a non-resident?

Dubai

Non-Emiratis, both residents and non-residents, can buy property in any of the freehold areas of Dubai, alongside a couple of leasehold areas.

Non-resident investors tend to like to invest in the coastal areas to be near the beach and near major landmarks and experience the holiday lifestyle Dubai offers.

Top locations for investment include -

• Dubai Marina & Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
• Palm Jumeirah
• Downtown Dubai and Burj Khalifa area

Property Uses

Overseas property investors have the option of buying a property for a holiday or vacation home, which can be used by friends and family throughout the year, or alternatively, investors can look to earn a tax-free income by leasing the property out.

The properties can be leased on a long-term annual agreement, or more investors are looking to increase their ROI (return on investment) by putting the property up for short-term holiday style lets through a management company.

Abu Dhabi

Non-GCC nationals who are looking to buy in the capital, Abu Dhabi, can look to purchase in designated freehold or leasehold areas.

People are drawn to the quieter lifestyle in Abu Dhabi and like the island's proximity to top tourist attractions and golf courses.

The top areas for investment are -

• Yas Island
• Reem Island
• Saadiyat Island
• Al Reef Village 

If you are a non-UAE resident and need assistance with financing and purchasing a property in Dubai, contact Holo in order to see how we can help.

This blog is for educational purposes, but everyone's case is unique, and local guidelines and regulations may change. Our mortgage advisors can help you with any question you may have and have the latest advice. Get in touch.