Questions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a mortgage broker actually do?
A mortgage broker compares home loan offers from multiple banks on your behalf, handles the paperwork and bank communication, and negotiates terms — instead of you approaching each bank separately. Remo works with 30+ lenders in the UAE and manages the process from application to approval.
How much does it cost to use a mortgage broker?
In most cases, there's no charge to you for using Remo — we don't charge our customers a fee to arrange their mortgage. In some cases (for example, certain non-resident or particularly complex applications), a service fee may apply. Ask your Remo advisor to confirm the exact terms for your situation before you commit to anything.
Can non-residents get a mortgage in Dubai or the UAE?
Yes. Several UAE banks offer mortgages to non-residents (buyers without a UAE residency visa), though typically with a higher down payment than residents and a narrower choice of eligible properties. See our dedicated guide on non-resident mortgages for details.
What down payment do I need for a mortgage in the UAE?
Under UAE Central Bank mortgage regulations, residents typically need a minimum down payment of around 20% for a first property (more for a second), while non-residents typically need around 40-50%. On top of that, budget for one-time transaction costs: the Dubai Land Department (DLD) transfer fee (around 4% of the property value), a real estate agency fee (typically around 2%), and a mortgage registration fee (around 0.25% of the loan amount). Exact figures depend on the property, the bank, and your profile — your Remo advisor will confirm what applies to you.
What's the minimum salary needed to get a mortgage?
For residents, the minimum salary requirement typically starts from AED 8,750 per month. That said, meeting the minimum is just one factor — your credit history, your employer/company profile, and any existing loan commitments matter just as much when a bank decides on your application.
What documents do I need to apply?
Typically: a copy of your passport, 3-6 months of bank statements, proof of income (salary certificate or business/trade license for self-employed applicants), and the property's sale/reservation contract. Non-residents may also need a credit report from their home country. Your Remo advisor will give you an exact checklist once they know your situation.
How long does getting a mortgage in the UAE take?
It varies by bank and how complete your documents are, but a typical process — from application to final approval — runs a few weeks. Off-plan and non-resident applications can take longer due to extra checks. We keep you updated at each stage so you're never left guessing.
Why use a broker instead of going straight to a bank?
A single bank only shows you its own products. A broker compares offers across many banks at once, which usually means better odds of finding a competitive rate and a lender that fits your specific profile (e.g. non-resident, self-employed, off-plan) — plus one point of contact instead of juggling several banks yourself.
Do you help with financing off-plan (under-construction) properties?
Yes — off-plan financing has its own rules and payment-plan structures compared to ready properties. We work with lenders who offer construction/off-plan mortgage products and can walk you through how staged payments and bank financing work together.