Dubai's First-Time Home Buyer Programme: Benefits & How to Apply

Dubai, known for its modern skyline, luxury lifestyle, and growing property market, has introduced a programme aimed at helping residents purchase their first home. The First-Time Home Buyer Programme is a new initiative by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) to support residents in entering the property market with ease and confidence. This programme is designed to reduce financial burdens, provide exclusive offers, and make homeownership more achievable for both UAE nationals and expatriates living in Dubai.

The initiative reflects Dubai’s commitment to making property ownership accessible and supporting economic growth through real estate investments. It targets individuals who are ready to invest in a home but may need assistance with financing, property selection, and accessing special offers from developers and banks.

What is the First-Time Home Buyer Programme?

The programme, officially launched in July 2025, offers a range of benefits and support mechanisms for residents who are buying their first property in Dubai. Its main goal is to simplify the process of purchasing a home, reduce upfront costs, and provide additional incentives for first-time buyers.

Some key features of the programme include:

• Priority Access to New Properties: Applicants can gain early access to newly launched properties from major developers. This allows buyers to select the best available units before they are open to the wider public.

• Special Pricing and Discounts: The programme offers discounted property prices on select units, helping buyers make their first home purchase more affordable. These special prices are negotiated with developers exclusively for first-time buyers.

• Flexible Payment Options: To reduce financial stress, the programme provides easy instalment plans for property payments and Dubai Land Department registration fees. Some options may include interest-free instalments via credit cards or other arrangements with developers and banks.

• Competitive Mortgage Offers: Partner banks offer mortgage solutions with lower interest rates and faster approvals. These exclusive mortgage products are designed to make home financing smoother and more accessible.

These features are designed to remove common barriers that first-time buyers face, such as high initial costs, difficulty accessing properties, and strict mortgage requirements.

Eligibility Criteria for the Programme

Not every resident qualifies automatically. To participate in the First-Time Home Buyer Programme, applicants must meet certain conditions:

• UAE Residency: Both UAE nationals and expatriates living in Dubai are eligible. Applicants must hold valid residency permits.

• Minimum Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old, the legal age to own property in Dubai.

• First Property Requirement: Applicants should not own any freehold residential property in Dubai. Ownership in other Emirates or leasehold properties in Dubai does not affect eligibility.

• Property Value Limit: The value of the property being purchased should not exceed AED 5 million. This ensures that the programme remains focused on making first-time ownership accessible to middle-income buyers.

These eligibility criteria are straightforward but essential to ensure the programme reaches the intended beneficiaries.

Detailed Benefits of the Programme

•  Priority Access to New Launches

First-time buyers registered under the programme receive early access to new property developments. This is a major advantage in Dubai’s competitive real estate market, where high-demand properties can sell out quickly. Priority access allows buyers to secure units in prime locations and choose layouts or designs that suit their preferences.

•  Special Pricing and Discounts

One of the most appealing aspects of the programme is the availability of discounted prices. Developers participating in the programme offer first-time buyers special rates, making it possible to save a significant amount compared to the general market price. This reduces the financial burden for new homeowners and encourages investment in Dubai’s real estate.

•  Flexible Payment Plans

Purchasing a home often involves a significant upfront payment. To ease this, the programme provides flexible instalment options. Buyers can spread payments over time, including DLD registration fees. This makes the financial process smoother and allows first-time buyers to plan their budgets effectively.

•  Competitive Mortgage Products

Financing a home can be a challenging process, especially for first-time buyers. The programme includes access to competitive mortgage rates offered by partner banks. These mortgages often feature lower interest rates, easier approval processes, and flexible repayment options.

•  Additional Offers from Developers and Banks

Some developers and banks provide additional benefits, such as waiving administrative fees, offering cashback schemes, or providing other incentives. These extra perks further support first-time buyers in completing their purchase without unnecessary financial stress.

How to Apply

Applying for the First-Time Home Buyer Programme is simple and can be done online:

• Register Online: Applicants can register through the Dubai Land Department website or the Dubai REST app.

• Submit Required Documents: This includes Emirates ID and proof of residency, along with other necessary information requested during registration.

• Receive Confirmation: Eligible applicants will receive a confirmation email along with a unique QR code to access programme benefits.

• Use Benefits: Buyers can use their QR code to avail of priority property access, discounts, and special mortgage options from participating developers and banks.

There are no registration fees for joining the programme, but standard property registration fees and any applicable developer or bank charges may still apply.

Partner Developers and Banks

The programme collaborates with several leading property developers and banks in Dubai, ensuring a wide range of options for first-time buyers.

Participating Developers Include:

• Emaar

• Nakheel

• DAMAC

• Meraas

• Dubai Properties

• Azizi Developments

• Ellington Properties

• Binghatti Properties

• Majid Al Futtaim

• Danube Properties

• Palma Holding

• Wasl

• Beyond Developments

Partner Banks Include:

• Emirates NBD

• Emirates Islamic

• Dubai Islamic Bank

• Mashreq Bank

• Commercial Bank of Dubai

These partnerships provide applicants with a wide selection of properties and financial products, making it easier to find the right home and mortgage solution.

Additional Opportunities for Buyers

The First-Time Home Buyer Programme also opens doors to additional benefits:

• Golden Visa Eligibility: Purchasing a property through the programme could make residents eligible for the UAE’s 10-year Golden Visa, providing long-term residency benefits.

• Broader Property Options: Buyers can access both off-plan and ready-to-move-in properties, giving more flexibility in choosing a home that fits their needs and budget.

Dubai’s First-Time Home Buyer Programme is a significant initiative that makes homeownership more accessible for residents. By offering priority access, discounted property prices, flexible payment options, and competitive mortgage products, the programme addresses the key challenges faced by first-time buyers.

Whether you are a UAE national or an expatriate, this initiative provides a clear path toward owning your first home in one of the world’s most dynamic and modern cities. It represents Dubai’s commitment to supporting residents, encouraging property investment, and promoting long-term financial security through homeownership.