Mortgage Age Limit in the UAE: What Borrowers Need to Know in 2025

Until recently, many UAE residents faced restrictions on how long they could borrow due to a strict mortgage age limit. Typically, banks capped the maximum repayment age at 65 for salaried individuals and 70 for self-employed borrowers. However, with recent regulatory changes and evolving banking practices, the picture is shifting—giving older buyers and investors more flexibility.

This article explains the current rules around the mortgage age limit in the UAE, how they have changed, and what borrowers should keep in mind when applying.

What Was the Mortgage Age Limit Before?

Traditionally, banks in the UAE limited mortgage repayment terms based on the borrower’s age:

• •Salaried employees: Mortgage had to be fully repaid by age 65.
  
  

• •Self-employed borrowers: Mortgage had to be fully repaid by age 70.
  
  

This meant that older applicants often faced shorter loan terms and higher monthly payments, making property purchases less affordable.

New Developments in Mortgage Age Limit Policies

According to recent updates, some UAE banks have started removing the strict upper age limit for mortgage repayment. Instead of focusing only on age, they are now assessing affordability, income stability, and overall risk.

This change reflects global best practices and recognizes that many individuals today remain financially active and solvent well beyond the traditional retirement ages.

What Does This Mean for Borrowers?

With the removal—or relaxation—of the mortgage age limit, borrowers in the UAE can now:

1. Access longer loan terms even if they are older.
   
   

2. Spread out payments over more years, reducing monthly installments.
   
   

3. Have more flexibility in structuring their mortgage around retirement planning.
   
   

This is especially beneficial for:

• •Expats planning to retire in the UAE who want to secure long-term housing.
  
  

• •Self-employed professionals who continue working well into their 70s.
  
  

• •Investors seeking to maximize leverage for real estate purchases.
  
  

Important Considerations Despite the Relaxation

Even though the mortgage age limit has been eased, banks will still carefully evaluate:

• •Income security: Is your income sustainable long-term?
  
  

• •Debt-to-income ratio: Are you already committed to other loans or financial obligations?
  
  

• •Loan-to-value (LTV) ratios: Down payment requirements remain in place, typically 20–25% for residents and 30–35% for non-residents.
  
  

• •Health and lifestyle factors: Some banks may still consider age indirectly when assessing risk.
  
  

Mortgage Age Limit and Loan Tenure Examples

Here’s how mortgage terms may now look in practice:

Note: Policies vary by bank and are subject to Central Bank regulations.

Tips for Older Borrowers Considering a Mortgage

If you are applying for a mortgage later in life, here are some strategies:

• •Show reliable income sources (salary, pension, rental income, or investments).
  
  

• •Increase your down payment to reduce the lender’s risk.
  
  

• •Work with a mortgage broker who understands which banks are more flexible with the mortgage age limit.
  
  

• •Consider a joint mortgage with a younger co-borrower to extend loan terms.
  
  

The easing of the mortgage age limit in the UAE is great news for older borrowers and long-term residents. It provides more flexibility, access to longer repayment terms, and new opportunities to own property or expand investment portfolios.

At Mortgage Finder, we stay up to date with the latest lender policies and can guide you to banks offering the most favorable terms, no matter your age.