Dubai Launches First-Time Home Buyer Programme to Boost Affordable Ownership
In a landmark move to support property ownership and long-term investment, Dubai has unveiled its First-Time Home Buyer Programme, a comprehensive initiative designed to ease entry into the real estate market for both Emiratis and expatriates. Jointly launched by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the program underscores Dubai’s commitment to increasing homeownership and enhancing the city’s global investment appeal.
The programme offers a strategic package of benefits tailored to first-time property buyers, including exclusive access to new project launches, preferential pricing for units valued up to AED 5 million, and mortgage solutions customized to buyer profiles. It aims to address affordability concerns and reduce barriers to property ownership, aligning with Dubai’s broader goal of doubling the real estate sector’s contribution to GDP by 2033 under the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033 and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
Inclusive Eligibility Criteria for All Nationalities
The First-Time Home Buyer Programme is inclusive and accessible to UAE residents across all nationalities and income levels. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, currently residing in the UAE, and must not own any freehold residential property in Dubai at the time of application. This opens up a unique opportunity for a wide range of residents—from young professionals to growing families—to transition from renting to owning a home in the emirate.
His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of DET, emphasized the strategic impact of the program: “By lowering entry barriers to homeownership for Emiratis and expatriates alike, we are enhancing investor confidence, increasing market absorption rates, and reinforcing Dubai’s global positioning as a city where personal aspirations and business ambitions converge.”
Banking and Developer Support
Several of Dubai’s leading banks have partnered with the initiative to offer tailored mortgage products to eligible applicants. These include:
- Commercial Bank of Dubai
- Dubai Islamic Bank
- Emirates NBD
- Emirates Islamic
- Mashreq Bank
Major property developers have also pledged support to the program by allocating a range of suitable residential inventory and offering incentives for qualified buyers. Participating developers include:
- Emaar Properties
- Ellington Properties
- DAMAC Properties
- Azizi Developments
- Danube Properties
- Dubai Properties
- Nakheel
- Majid Al Futtaim
- Binghatti Holding
- Meraas
This multi-sector collaboration reinforces the city’s focus on creating a well-regulated, investor-friendly environment for sustainable urban growth.
Key Investment Locations for First-Time Buyers
Dubai’s real estate market offers a variety of vibrant communities ideal for first-time homeowners. Popular zones like Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai Hills Estate, and Dubai South are particularly well-suited for affordable and lifestyle-driven investments. These areas combine excellent infrastructure, green open spaces, and access to schools, retail, and wellness facilities.
Aligning with Dubai’s Long-Term Vision
His Excellency Omar Bu Shehab, Director General of DLD, noted that the programme is a key pillar of the city’s long-term strategy: “It reflects our intent to make homeownership more attainable while encouraging residents to commit to Dubai for the long term. Through inclusive policies and sustainable financing solutions, we’re fostering a more balanced and resilient real estate market.”
As Dubai continues to attract residents from across the globe, the First-Time Home Buyer Programme positions the emirate as a destination of choice for those seeking stability, investment growth, and an elevated quality of life. With the support of top developers and financial institutions, this initiative will play a crucial role in shaping the city’s property market over the next decade.
For more details on eligible developers, available properties, and buyer criteria, visit the Aurantius Real Estate homepage.
