How Long Does It Take to Get a House Through a Mortgage Loan in Dubai?
Buying a property in the UAE with a mortgage loan
Buying a property in Dubai is a dream for many, and securing a mortgage is the most common way to make that dream a reality. But one of the first questions homebuyers ask is: “How long does it take to actually get the keys to my new house?”
In this guide, we’ll break down the typical timeline of a mortgage process in Dubai, what factors can speed it up, and the key steps you should prepare for.
On average, the entire mortgage process in Dubai takes between 4 to 8 weeks, from the day you submit your documents until you receive the property handover.
The speed depends on:
The bank’s pre-approval process
How quickly you submit all required documents
Whether the property is ready or off-plan
The developer/seller’s paperwork and clearance
Step 1: Mortgage Pre-Approval (3–5 working days)
Before you can make an offer or sign a sales agreement, you need to know how much you can borrow.
Pre-approval is issued by banks in 3–5 working days (some may take a week).
It requires documents like your passport, Emirates ID, salary certificate, and bank statements.
This step gives you a clear budget and shows sellers you’re a serious buyer.
Step 2: Finding & Agreeing on the Property (1–2 weeks)
Once you’re pre-approved, you can confidently search for properties that fit your budget.
Sign the Form F (MOU – Memorandum of Understanding) with the seller.
Pay the deposit (usually 10%).
At this stage, the property is “locked” for you.
Step 3: Final Mortgage Approval & Property Valuation (1–2 weeks)
The bank will:
Conduct a property valuation (typically 2–5 working days).
Issue the final offer letter once valuation and compliance checks are done.
This is the most critical stage, and delays can happen if any documents are missing.
Step 4: Transfer at Dubai Land Department (DLD) (1–2 weeks)
Once the final mortgage is approved:
The bank prepares the Manager’s Cheque for the seller.
The transfer happens at the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
You pay the DLD transfer fees, trustee fees, and other charges.
At this point, the property title is transferred into your name.
Step 5: Handover & Move-In (Few days)
Finally, you receive:
The title deed in your name
Keys and access cards from the developer or seller
And just like that—you can move into your new home.
Tips to Speed Up the Mortgage Process in Dubai
Prepare documents in advance – salary slips, bank statements, IDs.
Work with a mortgage broker – we coordinate with banks, sellers, and DLD to save you time. WhatsApp us now for free consultation
Choose a bank that fits your profile – Islamic vs conventional, fixed vs variable.
Stay responsive – any delay in document submission can add weeks.
