Dubai’s First-Time Home Buyer Programme: A Game-Changer for Emiratis and Expats Alike

Dubai has just launched a groundbreaking initiative — the First-Time Home Buyer Programme — aimed at helping both Emiratis and expatriates step onto the property ladder. Launched by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), this initiative is a key part of the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033 and the D33 Economic Agenda, setting the stage for a more inclusive and thriving property market.

As property values in Dubai continue to rise, many residents have found it increasingly difficult to own a home. The new programme comes as a much-needed solution, offering a wide range of financial benefits and exclusive access to property launches for eligible first-time buyers.

The goal? Encourage more UAE residents to shift from renting to owning, helping them build long-term wealth while supporting Dubai’s ambitious economic growth plans.

If you're:

• A UAE resident (any nationality)
• Over 18 years old
• And you do not currently own a freehold residential property in Dubai

…then this programme is for you.

There are no salary requirements, and the process is open to all income levels.

• Priority access to off-plan and ready properties from top-tier developers
• Exclusive discounts on new launches and selected units under AED 5 million
• Flexible payment plans
• Tailored mortgages with reduced interest rates, lower fees, and faster approvals
• Zero-interest DLD registration fee payments via participating banks or credit cards
• Early notifications before public project launches
• Automatic eligibility checks for residency programmes

Some of Dubai’s biggest real estate names are part of the programme, including:

• Emaar, Damac, Nakheel, Azizi, Ellington, Binghatti, Meraas, and more

Participating banks include:

• Emirates NBD, Dubai Islamic Bank, Mashreq, Commercial Bank of Dubai, and Emirates Islamic

These partners are offering customised financial solutions to support first-time buyers in making confident property investments.

The programme applies to both new and existing properties. While no specific zones are exclusive to the programme, more affordable communities such as Dubai Land Residential Complex, Liwan, Silicon Oasis, Al Warsan, and Marjan are expected to attract strong demand.

1. Register online via the DLD website or the Dubai REST app
2. Submit your property preferences
3. Upon verification, you’ll receive a First-Time Buyer QR Code
4. Use this code to access all benefits through approved developers and banks

Note: Once you buy a property, you can no longer participate in the programme, even if you later sell it.

This initiative isn’t just about buying homes — it’s about long-term investment, social stability, and financial empowerment. For years, local residents have struggled to gain early access to new property launches. Now, with this programme, the tables are turning.

“By lowering the entry barrier into homeownership, Dubai is creating an opportunity for more people to invest in their futures,” said Omar Bu Shehab, Director General of the Dubai Land Department.

Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or a long-term resident, this programme offers a rare opportunity to own property in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

For developers and banks, it opens a new buyer segment ready to commit to the market.

For Dubai, it reinforces its position as a global benchmark for smart, inclusive urban development.

Our team at Baytii Real Estate is here to help. We’ll guide you through the registration process, match you with the best properties under this programme, and help you secure the most competitive financing options available.

📲 Contact Baytii today and let’s find your first dream home in Dubai!