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How to Get a Mortgage in Abu Dhabi: Types, Process, and Benefits for Buyers.

Buying a home is exciting , but it often means getting a mortgage. A mortgage lets you buy a property without paying all the money upfront. In Abu Dhabi, knowing how mortgages work, the different types available, and how the process works can help you feel more confident. If you’re looking to buy property in Abu Dhabi, this guide will explain what a mortgage is, the types of mortgages offered, how to register a property mortgage contract in Abu Dhabi, and how non-residents can also access mortgage financing.

mortgage guide Abu Dhabi
What is a Mortgage?

A mortgage is a loan you get from a bank or lender to finance the property you want to buy. The property itself serves as collateral, which means if you fail to repay the loan, the lender may take ownership of that property. You pay back the loan over time through monthly installments, which include both the amount you borrowed (the principal) and the extra cost for borrowing (interest).

In short: mortgage = borrow money ➝ buy home now ➝ repay over time while the home guarantees the loan.

Types of Mortgages

When you think about mortgages in Abu Dhabi, there are several types you should know. The two key ways to classify them are by interest rate and by repayment structure (including Sharia-compliant options).

By Interest Rate
  • Fixed-rate mortgage: The interest rate stays the same for the entire loan term. This means you know exactly how much you’ll pay each month.

  • Floating-rate mortgage: The interest rate can change during the life of the loan, based on market conditions (for example the EIBOR in the UAE).

  • Mixed-rate mortgage: A combination of fixed and floating rate. For example, fixed for the first few years, then floating afterwards.

By Repayment Structure / Special Types
  • Standard repayment mortgage: You pay both principal and interest each month until the loan ends.

  • Sharia-compliant mortgage contracts: In Abu Dhabi you also have Islamic home finance options like Ijara, Murabaha, or Diminishing Musharaka. These do not use traditional interest but follow Islamic finance rules.

    1. Ijara: The bank buys  the property and leases it to you; at the end you own it.
    2. Murabaha: The bank buys property then sells it to you at a marked-up price and you pay in instalments.
    3. Diminishing Musharaka: You and the bank co-own the property; over time you buy the bank’s share until you fully own it.

Understanding these types helps you pick what works best for your finances, lifestyle, and beliefs.

How to Register a Property Mortgage Contract in Abu Dhabi

If you’re getting a mortgage in Abu Dhabi, you also need to register the mortgage on the property. Here’s how the process works in a simple step-by-step way:

  • Log in to DARI: The official platform for Abu Dhabi property services.
  • Select the service: Choose Financing and Mortgages and then Register a property mortgage contract.
  • Select property and bank: Choose the property you’ll finance and the bank providing the mortgage.
  • Upload required documents:

    1. Mortgage contract.
    2. No Objection Certificate (NOC) if there is a prior mortgage on the property.
    3. Other documents as required by the bank.

     

  • Review and pay fees: Pay applicable registration fee (for example, about 0.09% of the contract value) and confirm all details.
  • Await approval: The application is forwarded to the bank for final review and approval.
  • Finalize registration: Once the bank completes the contract and approves, you get notification and the mortgage is registered officially on the property title.

     

This registration protects both the lender and you, the buyer, making the mortgage official and recognised under Abu Dhabi law.

Mortgage for Non-Residents in Abu Dhabi

If you live outside the UAE or do not have a UAE residence visa, you can still get a mortgage in Abu Dhabi, but the rules are stricter. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Non-residents typically must pay higher down payments compared with residents. For example, instead of 20% for residents, non-residents may need 25-50% or more.

  • The loan-to-value (LTV) ratio for non-residents is lower. This means you may borrow only up to 50-65% of the property’s value.

  • Documentation requirements are stronger: you may need passport copy, proof of overseas income (bank statements or tax returns), credit report from your home country, and proof that the property is in a freehold area.

  • Mortgage terms and interest rates may be less favourable (higher rates, shorter terms) compared to resident borrowers.

  • Non-residents are often limited to specific properties that meet lender criteria for example, ready homes rather than off-plan, and in approved freehold zones.

  • For example, one product in Abu Dhabi announced that non-residents can access up to 75% finance for some cases, but this depends on strict conditions. 

If you are a non-resident and looking to buy property in Abu Dhabi, make sure you talk to a bank or mortgage broker who has experience with non-resident financing.

Why Understanding Mortgages Matters When You Buy Property

When you are buying an apartment, townhouse or villa for sale in Abu Dhabi, the mortgage type, loan term, interest rate and registration process all affect your monthly budget, long-term cost, and the value of your investment. Knowing your options means you can shop smart, pick the right product and avoid surprises.

Here are extra tips:

    1. Make sure you meet eligibility (stable income, age, good credit).
    2. Compare interest rates and ask if your mortgage is fixed, floating, or mixed.
    3. Look at all fees: registration, valuation, insurance.
    4. For non-residents especially: check property location, developer reputation, and possible restrictions.
    5. Get pre-approval so you know how much you can borrow before you buy.
How Mortgages Help the Real Estate Industry in Abu Dhabi

Mortgages play a huge role in shaping Abu Dhabi’s real estate market and overall economy. Here’s how:

1. Encourages Homeownership

Mortgages make property ownership accessible to more people by reducing the need for full upfront payment. This allows both UAE residents and expatriates to buy homes and settle in Abu Dhabi long-term.

2. Boosts Real Estate Demand

By making properties more affordable through financing, mortgages increase buyer activity across villas, apartments, and off-plan projects. This demand drives continuous development and keeps the real estate market active.

3. Supports Developers and Investors

Developers benefit from a steady flow of end-users purchasing homes through mortgages. This ensures quicker sales of new projects, allowing developers to reinvest and launch more communities.

4. Stabilizes Market Growth

Mortgages create a balanced market. Instead of short-term speculation, buyers commit to longer-term ownership, which stabilizes property values and promotes sustainable growth.

5. Enhances Investment Opportunities

With mortgages available to both residents and non-residents, Abu Dhabi attracts global investors who can diversify portfolios through financed purchases instead of full cash investments.

6. Supports Economic Development

Real estate is one of Abu Dhabi’s biggest economic sectors. Mortgages stimulate multiple industries, from banking and insurance to construction and property management — creating a ripple effect that strengthens the overall economy.

7. Improves Market Confidence

A well-regulated mortgage system builds trust. Buyers, lenders, and developers operate within clear legal frameworks, increasing confidence in the Abu Dhabi property market locally and internationally.

In short, mortgages are more than just financial tools, they are a key driver of growth, stability, and accessibility in Abu Dhabi’s real estate ecosystem.

Why Understanding Mortgages Matters When Buying Property

If you plan to buy a villa or apartment in Abu Dhabi, knowing your mortgage options helps you:

  • Plan your budget accurately.

  • Choose between fixed, variable, or Sharia-compliant loans.

  • Avoid hidden fees or unrealistic payment terms.

  • Get pre-approval and negotiate confidently with developers or sellers.

A little preparation now can save you a lot of stress later.

If you’re interested in properties for sale in Abu Dhabi and want help choosing the right one, let our team at Royal Lounge Properties, a trusted real estate company in Abu Dhabi, guide you through both the property and mortgage process. We can connect you with suitable developments, help understand your mortgage options and make your purchase smoother.

Mortgages are a powerful tool that let you buy property now and pay over time. In Abu Dhabi, you’ll find many options like fixed rate, floating rate, Sharia-compliant or conventional. The registration process makes your mortgage official, and non-residents can also apply with extra care and preparation. If you take your time, pick the right structure, and align your budget with your goals, you’re well-placed to enjoy buying a home or investing in Abu Dhabi’s dynamic property market.



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