Thinking of buying off-plan property in Dubai but unsure how to finance it? Whether you're an expat end-user or an international investor, this guide walks you through your options — from developer payment plans to mortgage routes — and how to choose what works best for you.
Let’s face it: buying off-plan in Dubai is appealing. You get a brand-new home, often in a thoughtfully planned community, and (usually) a longer timeline to pay. But if you’re an expat or an overseas investor, the big question is: how do I finance it?
The good news? You’ve got options. Plenty of them. The not-so-good news? Not all options are created equal — and the best route depends on your goals, your cash flow, and your comfort level with commitment.
Here’s a breakdown of how expats and international buyers are financing off-plan property in 2025 — and what you need to know before making a move.
This is the most common — and often the most accessible — way to finance an off-plan property in Dubai.
Most developers today offer structured payment plans that break down your total cost over a few years. You typically pay:
No bank. No mortgage. No interest. Just a schedule directly tied to project milestones or a fixed calendar timeline.
A word of caution: Always check whether payments are tied to construction milestones or fixed dates. The former is generally safer — you’re not paying unless progress happens.
Contrary to popular belief, you can get a mortgage for off-plan properties in Dubai — but not from day one.
Most banks won’t release funds until the project hits a certain construction stage (typically 50–60%). At that point, if you meet eligibility criteria, you can apply for a pre-approved mortgage that kicks in to cover the remainder.
Just keep in mind: you’ll still need to fund the early installments yourself. Mortgages typically come into play for the handover payment or shortly before.
If you’re a cash buyer — great. You’ll often get a better deal from developers, maybe even a small discount for paying a lump sum upfront or over a shorter time frame.
This path is straightforward and gives you negotiating leverage. But let’s be honest — not everyone’s sitting on that kind of liquidity.
Also, from a financial strategy standpoint, tying up a large sum in a single off-plan unit might not be ideal if you want diversification or liquidity.
This is a middle-ground approach that many smart investors are using in 2025.
You start with the developer payment plan — say, 20% down and 50% during construction — then finance the remaining 30% through a mortgage at or just before handover.
This lets you:
Just make sure the project is mortgage-approved by banks before you commit, so you’re not left scrambling later.
Financing isn’t just about the property price. As a buyer (especially an expat or foreign national), you’ll also need to factor in:
Build a buffer — around 6–8% of the property value — to cover these extras.
Financing aside, none of this matters if the project doesn’t get delivered on time — or to spec.
Choose developers with a reputation for transparency, realistic timelines, and human-centered design. Companies like QUBE Development — behind Cubix Residences in JVC and Arisha Terraces in Studio City — are standing out by offering not just accessible payment terms, but also build quality and lifestyle value that justify the purchase.
Financing an off-plan purchase in Dubai as an expat or investor isn’t just about getting the numbers right. It’s about knowing your options — and knowing which one fits you.
Whether you’re going all in with a payment plan, blending it with a mortgage later, or testing the market before a bigger move, the important part is: you’re not locked out. Dubai’s market in 2025 is built for choice.
Just make sure your financing plan matches your long-term intent — not just your short-term budget.
About QUBE Development:
QUBE Development, a subsidiary of DHG Investments, is a leading real estate developer in Dubai of high-quality residential and commercial properties. Standing on a 30-year legacy of experience and excellence, QUBE is dedicated to transforming living spaces in the UAE by integrating sustainable architecture, captivating design, and unparalleled amenities.
As a community-focused property developer in Dubai, QUBE Development aims to set the benchmark for real estate development by creating the foundation for generational wealth for customers. The company prioritizes durability and quality in every project. Expanding its portfolio throughout the UAE, QUBE Development responds swiftly to the evolving market demands, maintaining a commitment to providing the highest quality builds through collaborations with world-renowned architects and in partnership with a dedicated contractor to ensure meticulous attention to design and construction.
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