In a bold move to make homeownership more accessible and drive real estate investment, the Dubai Land Department (DLD), in collaboration with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), has launched the groundbreaking First-Time Home Buyer Programme. Unveiled on July 2, 2025, this new initiative is aimed at helping UAE residents both Emiratis and expatriates to buy their first home. The program offers special benefits that encourage more residents to invest in long-term property ownership.
The First-Time Property Buyer Programme: An Overview
The newly launched First-Time Home Buyer Programme is a strategic response to Dubai’s surging real estate market and aligns with the city’s ambitious Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033. These long-term plans aim to double Dubai’s economic output and increase the real estate sector’s contribution to GDP.
Who is Eligible For The First-Time Home Buyer Programme?
This project aims to assist UAE citizens in their first step toward home ownership. Here are the key eligibility requirements –
- Applicants must be 18 years or older.
- Open to residents of all nationalities and income levels currently living in the UAE.
- Must not possess any Dubai freehold residential property.
- Those who own property in non-freehold areas can still apply.
- The property value must be under AED 5 million to qualify.
- Joint ownership is allowed as long as all co-buyers meet the eligibility criteria.
Unlocking a Wealth of Benefits for Aspiring Homeowners
The First-Time Home Buyer Programme is thoughtfully designed to remove the common barriers many residents face when trying to enter the property market. Here’s what eligible residents can expect –
- Priority Access to Premier Launches – Be among the first to explore and secure units in top off-plan developments from Dubai’s leading developers. This exclusive access gives first-time buyers a competitive advantage in a fast-paced market.
- Developer Discounts – As part of the program, participating developers are offering exclusive discounts of up to 10% below market value on both ready and off-plan properties. These special rates are designed to reduce upfront costs and empower first-time buyers to confidently invest in Dubai’s thriving property market.
- Flexible Payment Structures – The initiative introduces flexible payment plans, including extended mortgage tenors of up to 18 years and the option to pay the DLD registration fee (4% of the property value) in interest-free installments, either through banks or eligible credit cards.
- Customized Property Matching – Through the DLD website or the Dubai REST app, users can input their preferences (property type, budget, contact method). This data is shared directly with developers and banks to speed up the process. Applicants who prefer working with brokers can also benefit from the program.
A Collaborative Vision
The success of this program is built on a powerful collaboration between key industry players. It brings together Dubai’s top-tier developers and leading financial institutions to offer comprehensive solutions –
- Participating Developers – Emaar, Nakheel, DAMAC, Azizi, Ellington, Danube, Binghatti, Majid Al Futtaim, Wasl, Meraas, Beyond, Palma, and Dubai Properties are all onboard which showcase their commitment to this initiative.
- Supporting Banks – Emirates NBD, Mashreq, Dubai Islamic Bank, Emirates Islamic and Commercial Bank of Dubai are providing exclusive mortgage packages and flexible repayment options specifically tailored for first-time buyers.
A Boost for Dubai’s Long-Term Vision
This initiative is in line with Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33 and Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033, which seek to boost real estate’s GDP contribution and double the city’s economic production over the next decade. It is part of a broader vision to enhance quality of life, encourage long-term residency, and foster community development through property ownership.
Majid Al Marri, CEO of the Real Estate Registration Sector at DLD, emphasized the emirate’s real estate strength, noting that 10,000 new investors arrive in Dubai each month. “We expect this number to grow as the new programme encourages even more residents to invest in their future,” he said. He also confirmed that DLD’s goal is to reach AED 1 trillion in real estate transactions by 2033 — a sharp increase from the AED 761 billion recorded last year.
Homeownership as a Social Anchor
Beyond the financial advantages, the programme carries strong social significance. It reinforces Dubai’s commitment to turning its vibrant, multicultural population into long-term stakeholders.
Hadi Badri, CEO of Dubai Economic Development Corporation, called homeownership a “social anchor” that fosters belonging, stability, and quality of life. “To many who’ve dreamed of owning a home here, the time is now. This initiative ensures that residents, regardless of background, have a real chance to plant roots in a city they love,” he said.
Mohamad Kaswani, Managing Director of Mortgage Finder, echoed this sentiment, adding, “This programme empowers residents to move from thinking to owning. It aligns with Dubai’s vision to grow its population to 5.8 million by 2040 and to become the best city in the world to live in.”
Looking Ahead
If you’re a UAE resident dreaming of owning your first home in Dubai, there’s never been a better moment to take the leap. The First-Time Home Buyer Programme marks a transformative step in the city’s real estate journey—offering unmatched benefits, exclusive opportunities, and a smoother path to long-term ownership.
Don’t let this historic opportunity pass you by. Contact Miva Real Estate today for a complimentary consultation. Let us help you secure your place in one of the world’s most dynamic and thriving cities – your Dubai dream home awaits!
