Dubai has officially launched a First-Time Home Buyer Programme aimed at making it significantly easier and more affordable for residents—both UAE nationals and expats—to buy their first freehold property in Dubai. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown:
Launched on 2 July 2025
The Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) kicked off the program on July 2, 2025, as part of the Real Estate Strategy 2033 and the D33 Economic Agenda
Eligibility:
- UAE resident (expat or Emirati), aged 18+
- Never owned a freehold residential property in Dubai
- Looking to purchase property up to AED 5 million
Core Benefits:
- Priority Access to off-plan launches from major developers
- Preferential Prices on selected units
- Flexible Payment Plans—both for off-plan instalments and for DLD registration fees (via interest-free instalments on credit cards)
- Tailored Mortgage Offers with better interest rates and reduced fees from partner banks
- Additional perks like automatic residency checks and developer/bank incentives
Partners Involved:
Developers (13):
Emaar, Nakheel, Ellington, Beyond, Dubai Properties, Meraas, Majid Al Futtaim, Palma Development, Wasl, Damac, Danube, Binghatti, Azizi
Banks (5):
Commercial Bank of Dubai, Dubai Islamic Bank, Emirates NBD/Islamic, Mashreq Bank
Why It’s a Big Deal:
- No nationality or income restrictions—open to all residents
- Helps reduce upfront financial burden with zero-interest fee instalments & lower financing costs
- Targets mid-market segment, aligns with urban living and economic growth strategy
How to Apply:
- Register via DLD website or Dubai REST app
- Provide Emirates ID, residency proof, and declaration of non-ownership of freehold in Dubai
- Receive your First-Time Home Buyer QR code
- Use the QR code with participating developers/banks to access exclusive offers and financing options
Other Important Details:
- Valid for first 5,000 applicants
- Once you buy a property, your eligibility ends—even if you sell it later
- You can choose different developers/banks after registration; just one of each applies
Steps You Can Take Now:
- Register through the DLD website or Dubai REST app
- Use your QR code when exploring off-plan projects up to AED 5M
- Speak with partner banks for customized mortgage deals
This is a real opportunity to access early-stage launches, save on fees, and get better financing—especially for first-time buyers on a budget.