Dubai’s mortgage market stands out in a few key ways compared to other countries, making it a unique experience for both expats and residents looking to purchase property.

1. Down Payment Requirements: In Dubai, the minimum down payment for expats is higher than in many other countries. For example, expat buyers must typically provide a 20-25% down payment for properties valued under AED 5 million. For properties above this threshold, the down payment increases to 30%. In contrast, in countries like the US or UK, down payments can be as low as 5-10%, depending on loan programs available to residents.

2. Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratio: Dubai's LTV ratio also differs, particularly for expats. The maximum LTV for expat buyers is around 75%, whereas in some other regions, buyers can secure mortgages with higher LTV ratios, such as 90% or even 95%. This higher upfront payment in Dubai ensures banks are exposed to less risk but requires buyers to have substantial liquidity available.

3. Debt Burden Ratio (DBR): The DBR is a significant factor in determining eligibility for a mortgage in Dubai. It stipulates that the total debt a borrower has, including the mortgage, cannot exceed 50% of their income. This ratio is generally higher than in countries like the US, where the cap for housing expenses is around 28-30% of monthly income, and total debt can reach around 36-45% depending on the lender.

4. Fixed vs. Variable Rates: In Dubai, borrowers can choose between fixed and variable-rate mortgages, much like in other countries. However, the fixed-rate terms are generally shorter (1-5 years), after which the rate becomes variable. In contrast, in countries like the US, fixed rates can span the entire loan term, commonly 15 or 30 years.

5. Fees and Insurance: Dubai’s mortgage process includes several fees not typically seen in other markets, such as the 0.25% mortgage registration fee and compulsory mortgage life insurance. These can add to the overall cost of obtaining a mortgage, making it more expensive upfront than in some countries where such fees might not exist or are significantly lower.

6. Islamic Financing: Dubai offers Islamic mortgages, which comply with Sharia law, making it unique compared to many Western countries. These mortgages operate on profit-sharing rather than interest-based lending, and are a common choice for buyers seeking Islamic finance options.

By understanding these differences, buyers can better navigate the Dubai mortgage process and align their strategies with local requirements to ensure a smooth experience.