What’s Changing?

On July 2, 2025, the Dubai Land Department (DLD), in collaboration with the Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET), launched a First‑Time Home‑Buyer Programme. This initiative brings together key developers, banks, and brokers to make property ownership more realistic for long-term residents and expats who’ve never owned a freehold property in Dubai.

Who Qualifies?

Here's a snapshot of eligibility:

• Must be 18 + and a UAE resident (nationals or expatriates)

• Never owned a freehold residential property in Dubai

• Looking to buy a home priced under AED 5 million

• Registration is easy via the Dubai REST app or DLD's website

What You Get

The programme offers:

1. Early access to new launches and inventory from selected developers

2. Preferential pricing on off‑plan units

3. Flexible payment options—both for developer plans and DLD registration via interest‑free instalments on credit cards

4. Enhanced mortgage packages—including lower interest rates and reduced bank fees

5. Extra perks from partner banks and developers, especially for Emiratis.
    

Why Now is a Great Time to Buy

1. Dubai's Property Market is Soaring

• Q3 2024 saw residential sales hit AED 120 billion, with prime‑segment buyers spending over USD 4.4 billion, a 76 % YoY increase.

• Prices have jumped roughly 147 % over the past five years.

2. Global Buyer Momentum

Dubai’s popularity stretches well beyond the region. A notable rise in European and North American buyers, driven by property-linked Golden Visas, is reshaping demand.

3. Flexible Developer Initiatives

Developers are offering innovative plans—such as 0.5 % monthly payment models, 1‑EMI full-price payment options, and interest‑free instalments—to support buyers who can't make big upfront payments.

Smart Tips for First-Time Dubai Homebuyers

Here are practical steps and smart advice drawn from market pros:

1. Define & Respect Your Budget

Include extras like down‑payment, 4 % property transfer fee, DLD registration, agent commissions (2‑5 %), legal costs, annual service fees, utilities, and potential renovations.

2. Get Mortgage Pre‑Approval

A pre‑approval helps you determine your purchasing power and strengthens your position with sellers.
For expats, expect a minimum 20 % down payment for the first property under AED 5 million.

3. Do Your Research: Location & Developer

• Compare areas: Downtown and Marina offer premium living, while JVC and Mirdif are more affordable.

• Choose trustworthy developers with completed projects and transparent timelines; consider pros like Emaar, Damac, Azizi, Danube, Binghatti.

4. Thorough Property Inspection

Hire a professional to check structural and service issues before signing anything. For off-plan projects, review developer reputations and project delivery history.

5. Understand Legalities

Familiarise yourself with freehold vs leasehold, obtain a National Developer Certificate, and get help reviewing the SPA. The DLD and RERA govern the market to ensure transparency.

6. Factor in Future Value

Pick a location with strong resale and rental potential. Proximity to transport, schools, and planned infrastructure can significantly influence long-term returns.

7. Be Prepared to Negotiate

Whether buying off-plan or ready-property, leverage market trends and agent advice to negotiate price, payment terms, and additional perks like waived fees or early delivery .

The Bottom Line

Dubai’s First-Time Home Buyer Programme—backed by strong government and developer support—makes now one of the brightest windows ever for first-time buyers in the city. When you combine this with flexible developer deals and a thriving real estate environment, it’s a golden opportunity to step onto the property ladder.