On July 2, 2025, the Dubai Land Department launched a major initiative aimed at supporting aspiring homeowners across the emirate: the First-Time Home Buyer Programme.

Designed for UAE residents who have never owned a freehold residential property in Dubai, this initiative offers exclusive benefits, simplified processes, and a more affordable path into the property market.

At a time when Dubai continues to evolve as one of the world’s most attractive real estate destinations, this programme reflects a growing commitment to inclusivity and long-term residential investment.

What Is the First-Time Home Buyer Programme?

The First-Time Home Buyer Programme is a structured government initiative designed to provide financial and procedural support to individuals purchasing their first freehold home in Dubai. The programme is available to both Emiratis and expatriates who meet the criteria and is valid for properties priced up to AED 5 million.

It is part of Dubai’s broader economic strategy under the D33 Agenda and the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033, which aim to enhance homeownership, increase real estate market liquidity, and promote economic sustainability.

Who Is Eligible?

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be a UAE resident (Emirati or expatriate)
• Be 18 years of age or older
• Never have owned a freehold residential property in Dubai
• Be purchasing a home valued below AED 5 million

Importantly, owning property in other emirates or owning non-freehold property does not disqualify an applicant. The key condition is that the individual has never owned a freehold residential unit within Dubai.

Key Benefits of the Programme

Participants in the programme receive access to exclusive incentives from both developers and banks, including:

1. Priority Access to Units - Buyers receive early access to select off-plan and ready properties from Dubai’s leading developers.

2. Preferential Property Pricing - Selected developers offer discounted pricing to programme participants, making ownership more financially viable.

3. Flexible Payment Plans - For off-plan properties, participants may benefit from more accommodating installment plans during the construction phase.

4. Interest-Free DLD Fee Installments - DLD registration fees can be paid in interest-free installments using eligible credit cards.

5. Preferential Mortgage Rates - Partner banks offer tailored mortgage options with better rates, reduced processing fees, and faster approvals.

These benefits are made possible through collaboration with top-tier developers and banking institutions across Dubai.

Participating Developers and Banks

This initiative is supported by an impressive roster of Dubai’s most respected real estate developers and banking institutions. On the development side, participants can explore properties offered by Emaar, DAMAC Properties, Nakheel, Meeras, Majid Al Futtaim, Dubai Properties (DP), Danube Properties, Azizi Developments, Ellington Properties Development LLC, Wasl Group, Binghatti Developer, Palma Holding, and BEYOND Developments. These developers are known for delivering high-quality residential projects across various prime and emerging communities in Dubai, giving buyers a broad spectrum of architectural styles, price points, and lifestyle offerings.

On the financial side, partner banks include Emirates NBD, Emirates Islamic, Mashreq, Commercial Bank of Dubai, and DUBAI ISLAMIC BANK. These institutions are working in alignment with the programme to offer customized mortgage solutions—ranging from competitive interest rates to faster approvals and reduced fees—ensuring the financing process is as seamless and affordable as possible for qualified buyers.

How to Apply

The process is designed to be accessible and efficient:

1- Register online through the Dubai REST app or the DLD website.

2- If eligible, the applicant will receive a First-Time Buyer QR Code via email.

3- This QR code must be presented to participating developers and banks to access the programme’s benefits.

4- Once a qualifying property is purchased and registered, the QR code is automatically deactivated—it can only be used for one purchase.

There are no additional application or participation fees for the programme. Standard transaction costs apply unless waived or discounted by participating developers or banks.

Important Notes

• The benefits apply only to one purchase and are not transferable.
• If an applicant is rejected, DLD will provide the reason, and reapplication is possible once the disqualifying factor is resolved.
• Buyers are not required to take a mortgage to participate—purchases via cash or cheque are allowed.

A Strategic Step Toward Widening Access

This initiative is more than a short-term incentive. It represents Dubai’s continued efforts to expand access to real estate ownership, retain long-term residents, and support a balanced, high-performing housing market.

By easing entry barriers—both financial and procedural—the programme opens new doors for a broader segment of the population, especially young professionals and families who may have previously viewed homeownership in Dubai as out of reach.

Shaping a More Accessible Future for Dubai Real Estate

The First-Time Home Buyer Programme is not just a short-term incentive—it represents a foundational shift in how Dubai encourages and supports long-term homeownership. It lowers traditional barriers to entry through reduced costs, better financing, and priority access to premium developments, making homeownership genuinely attainable for a broader population.

The initiative is also a reflection of Dubai’s commitment to economic growth through inclusive and sustainable real estate practices. For buyers, this is more than just an offer of convenience—it is an invitation to become part of the city’s long-term vision.

Whether you are a tenant looking to transition into ownership, a young couple investing in your future, or a UAE resident eager to take your first step onto the property ladder, this programme may be your best entry point.

Ready to find your first home in Dubai? Savoir Privé Properties can help you navigate the programme, shortlist eligible units, and connect you with the right developers and partner banks to simplify your purchase journey.

If you would like to know more about how to register, explore properties, or get started, feel free to reach out. We are here to support you every step of the way.

For full programme details or to begin your application, visit: https://dubailand.gov.ae/en/eservices/first-time-home-buyer-overview

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