Buying property in the UAE as an expat has never been more accessible. With rising property values, favorable mortgage regulations, and banks offering up to 80% loan-to-value (LTV) financing, non-residents can now secure homes in Dubai and Abu Dhabi with competitive rates and flexible terms. First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) leads the market with its expat-focused home loan program, providing up to AED 5 million at rates starting from 3.99% with no salary transfer required. Whether you’re purchasing your first apartment in Downtown Dubai or a villa in Saadiyat Island, this guide walks you through every step of the process.
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What is FAB Expat Home Loan?
FAB Expat Home Loan is a specialized mortgage product designed for non-UAE nationals seeking to purchase residential property in the Emirates. Offered by First Abu Dhabi Bank, the UAE’s largest bank, it complies with Central Bank of UAE (CBUAE) regulations and supports both ready and off-plan properties across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and select northern emirates. The program emphasizes digital applications, high LTV ratios, and tailored repayment options for expatriate buyers.
FAB Expat Home Loan Highlights
- Maximum Loan Amount: Up to AED 5,000,000
- LTV Ratio: Up to 80% for first property (75% for subsequent)
- Interest Rate: Starting from 3.99% per annum (fixed or variable)
- Loan Tenure: Up to 25 years (300 months)
- Application Method: 100% online via FAB mobile app or website
- Documentation: Passport, visa, salary certificate, property documents
- Processing Fee: 1% of loan amount (minimum AED 2,500)
- Disbursement: Direct to developer or seller within 5 business days
Eligibility Requirements for FAB Expat Home Loans
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for a FAB expat mortgage in 2025, applicants must meet these key criteria:
- Age Requirement: 21 to 65 years at loan maturity
- Residency Status: Valid UAE residence visa (minimum 6 months remaining)
- Employment Type: Salaried employee with confirmed contract
- Minimum Salary: AED 15,000 per month
- Work Experience: At least 1 year with current employer
- Property Type: Residential only (apartments, villas, townhouses)
- Debt Burden Ratio: Total EMIs not exceeding 50% of income
- Credit Standing: AECB score of 580 or higher
FAB welcomes applications from all nationalities, including first-time buyers and investors purchasing multiple properties.
How to Apply for FAB Expat Home Loan – Complete Application Process
Method 1: Mobile App Application
Step 1: Download FAB Mobile App
Install the official FAB app from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Available in English and Arabic.
Step 2: Register Your Profile
- Enter mobile number and verify with OTP
- Upload passport and residence visa
- Link salary account via open banking
Step 3: Pre-Qualification Check
- Input salary, existing debts, and desired loan amount
- Receive instant pre-approval estimate
- View personalized rate and EMI options
Step 4: Select Property Details
- Enter property value and location
- Specify ready or off-plan status
- Upload sale agreement or SPA (if available)
Step 5: Submit Documentation
Upload the following through the secure portal:
- Valid passport and residence visa
- Salary certificate (original or digital)
- 6-month bank statements
- Property title deed or developer NOC
- Valuation report (arranged by FAB)
Step 6: AI-Powered Credit Assessment
The system evaluates:
- Income stability and DBR
- Credit bureau history
- Property valuation and legal status
- Employment verification
Step 7: Receive Final Approval
Get loan offer within 48 hours including rate lock and terms.
Step 8: E-Sign Mortgage Agreement
Review and digitally sign using verified credentials.
Step 9: Funds Disbursement
Loan amount transferred directly to seller or developer upon title transfer.
Method 2: Website Application
Visit fab.ae and follow the same digital journey with live chat support and document tracking.
FAB Expat Home Loan Interest Rates and Fee Structure
Transparent Cost Breakdown
FAB ensures complete clarity with all costs disclosed upfront:
Interest Rates
- Fixed Rate: 3.99%–4.99% (first 3–5 years)
- Variable Rate: EIBOR + 1.49% margin
- Rate Lock: 60-day protection from market fluctuations
Processing Fees
- Application Fee: 1% of loan (capped at AED 25,000)
- Valuation Fee: AED 2,500–3,500 (property-dependent)
- Life Insurance: 0.035% per year of loan balance
Other Charges
- Late Payment Fee: 2% of overdue EMI
- Early Settlement: 1% of outstanding balance
- Property Insurance: Mandatory (0.05%–0.1% annually)
Sample Loan Calculation
Example: AED 2,000,000 property with 80% LTV (AED 1,600,000 loan) for 25 years at 3.99% fixed
- Monthly EMI: AED 8,398
- Total Interest Paid: AED 919,400
- Total Repayment: AED 2,519,400
Use the FAB mortgage calculator for scenario planning based on your salary and property value.
Key Benefits of FAB Expat Home Loans
- Highest LTV for Expats
80% financing — among the best available for non-nationals. - No Salary Transfer Required
Keep your salary in any UAE bank while enjoying prime rates. - Longest Tenure Available
Up to 25 years reduces monthly burden significantly. - Off-Plan Property Support
Finance under-construction projects with staged disbursements. - Digital End-to-End Process
From pre-approval to disbursal without branch visits. - Rate Lock Protection
Secure your interest rate for 60 days during property search. - Joint Application Option
Combine incomes with spouse for higher loan eligibility. - Property Switching Facility
Transfer existing mortgage to new property without penalties. - Dedicated Expat Team
Multilingual relationship managers specializing in non-resident needs. - Grace Period for Off-Plan
Deferred EMIs until project handover (up to 36 months).
Popular Reasons to Choose FAB Expat Home Loans
First Home Purchase in Dubai
Secure your apartment in Downtown, Marina, or JVC with minimal down payment.
Investment Property Portfolio
Build rental income through multiple property acquisitions.
Off-Plan Developments
Lock in lower prices with developer payment plans and bank financing.
Family Residence in Abu Dhabi
Purchase spacious villas in Saadiyat, Yas Island, or Al Reem.
Mortgage Refinancing
Switch from higher-rate loans to save thousands annually.
Golden Visa Eligibility
Property investment of AED 2M+ qualifies for 10-year residency.
Education-Focused Locations
Buy near top schools in Dubai Hills or Al Barsha.
Retirement Planning
Own a home as a long-term asset before visa expiry.
Luxury Segment Access
Finance high-end properties in Palm Jumeirah or Emirates Hills.
Commercial-to-Residential Conversion
Support live-work lifestyle in mixed-use communities.
FAB Expat vs Other UAE Mortgage Providers
| Feature | FAB Expat | Emirates NBD | Mashreq | ADCB |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max LTV (Expats) | 80% | 80% | 75% | 75% |
| Interest Rate | 3.99%+ | 4.25%+ | 4.49%+ | 4.75%+ |
| Approval Time | 48 hours | 5 days | 3 days | 7 days |
| Application | 100% digital | Hybrid | Digital | Branch required |
| Salary Transfer | Not required | Optional | Required | Required |
| Max Tenure | 25 years | 25 years | 20 years | 20 years |
| Off-Plan Support | Yes | Yes | Limited | No |
| Best For | First-time expats | High-net-worth | Digital speed | UAE nationals |
Tips to Improve Your FAB Expat Home Loan Approval Chances
- Boost Your Down Payment
Offer 25%+ to improve LTV and secure lower rates. - Clear Existing Liabilities
Settle credit cards and personal loans before applying. - Maintain Salary Consistency
Ensure 6 months of regular salary credits in the same account. - Choose Ready Property
Completed units process faster than off-plan projects. - Provide Strong Employment Proof
Include confirmed contract and promotion letters. - Select High-Demand Areas
Properties in Downtown, Marina, or Saadiyat have better valuation. - Opt for Joint Application
Spouse income can increase eligibility significantly. - Submit During Weekdays
Applications before 2 PM get same-day pre-assessment. - Lock Rate Early
Secure your offer while finalizing property purchase. - Work with Approved Developers
FAB-preferred partners expedite valuation and legal checks.
Managing Your FAB Expat Home Loan Effectively
Set Up Auto-Debit
Schedule EMI deductions to avoid late fees and maintain credit score.
Monitor Rate Changes
Switch from variable to fixed if EIBOR rises significantly.
Make Partial Prepayments
Reduce principal annually using bonuses or rental income.
Insure Your Property
Maintain mandatory insurance to protect your investment.
Track Market Value
Regular valuations may allow equity release for renovations.
Plan for Visa Renewal
Ensure mortgage term aligns with long-term residency goals.
FAB Expat Home Loan Customer Reviews and Reputation
What Users Say
Positive Feedback:
- Smoothest digital process among UAE banks
- Best rates for expats without salary transfer
- Responsive support team for off-plan buyers
- Transparent valuation and legal process
- High approval even for first-time buyers
Areas for Improvement:
- Processing fee higher than some competitors
- Strict DBR limits for high earners with multiple commitments
- Valuation delays during peak seasons
Trust and Security
FAB operates under full CBUAE regulation with industry-leading encryption and fraud protection systems.
Frequently Asked Questions About FAB Expat Home Loans
How much can I borrow as an expat?
Up to 80% of property value for your first home, 75% for additional properties.
Can I buy off-plan property?
Yes — with deferred EMIs until handover and staged disbursements.
Will applying affect my credit score?
Soft inquiry during pre-approval; hard pull only upon final offer acceptance.
What if my application is rejected?
Receive specific reasons and reapply after addressing issues (30–60 days).
Can I rent out the property?
Yes — investment properties are permitted with rental income proof.
Is there a penalty for selling early?
1% early settlement fee applies if sold within first 5 years.
What happens if I leave UAE?
Continue payments remotely or sell property to settle loan.
Can I refinance later?
Yes — switch to lower rates or extend tenure after 12 months.
Do I need UAE driving license?
Helpful but not mandatory — passport and visa suffice.
How secure is the digital process?
Bank-grade encryption with biometric verification and secure document upload.
Alternative Expat Mortgage Providers in UAE
While FAB leads in LTV and rates, consider these options:
Major Banks
- Emirates NBD – Strong off-plan support
- Mashreq – Fast digital approvals
- ADCB – Competitive for existing customers
Specialized Lenders
- RAKBANK – Higher LTV for select nationalities
- Dubai Islamic Bank – Shariah-compliant options
- HSBC Premier – Global transfer benefits
Mortgage Brokers
- Mortgage Finder – Compare 20+ banks
- Better Mortgage – End-to-end digital platform
Financial Wellness Tips While Using FAB Expat Home Loan
Budget for Total Costs
Include insurance, service charges, and DEWA beyond EMI.
Maintain Emergency Fund
Keep 6 months of expenses liquid despite mortgage commitment.
Avoid Over-Leveraging
Limit total debt to 50% of income for financial flexibility.
Understand Rate Options
Fixed for stability, variable for potential savings in low-rate cycles.
Build Equity Faster
Make extra payments when possible to reduce interest burden.
Plan for Golden Visa
Structure purchase to meet AED 2M threshold if desired.
Conclusion: Is FAB Expat Home Loan Right for Your Property Goals?
FAB Expat Home Loan stands as the premier mortgage solution for non-residents in 2025. The combination of 80% LTV, rates from 3.99%, no salary transfer, and full digital processing makes it ideal for:
✅ First-time expat buyers in Dubai or Abu Dhabi
✅ Investors building rental portfolios
✅ Off-plan purchasers seeking deferred payments
✅ High-income professionals avoiding bank switching
✅ Long-term residents planning for Golden Visa
However, keep in mind:
⚠️ Minimum AED 15,000 salary requirement
⚠️ 1% processing fee applies
⚠️ Strict debt burden ratio enforcement
⚠️ Property must be in approved areas
⚠️ Early settlement fee within 5 years
FAB transforms the dream of UAE property ownership into reality with structure, transparency, and expat-focused design.
Ready to Apply for Your FAB Expat Home Loan?
If you meet the salary and visa criteria with a chosen property, start your application through the FAB app today. Within 48 hours, you could be pre-approved for up to AED 5 million — taking the first step toward owning your piece of the UAE.
Remember: Buy wisely, finance responsibly, and build wealth through property, not debt.
Important Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Loan terms, interest rates, fees, and eligibility criteria are subject to change at the lender’s discretion. Always verify current information directly with FAB before applying. Consider your financial situation carefully and borrow responsibly. Late payments can negatively impact your credit score and result in additional charges.