Image: Getty Images/ For illustrative purposes
In a major move set to support the emirate’s real estate sector and residents, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) have jointly launched the First-Time Home Buyer programme, aimed at easing homeownership for Emiratis and expatriates.
The initiative offers first-time buyers priority access to new property launches, preferential pricing, and customised mortgage solutions, marking a significant step in making Dubai’s property market more accessible.
The programme aligns with key national and local frameworks, including the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033, and the UAE’s Year of Community.
Officials say the programme highlights the strength of public-private sector collaboration, with leading developers already on board.
First-Time Home Buyer programme: Banks and Dubai developers
Participating developers include Azizi Developments, Beyond Developments, Binghatti Holding, DAMAC Properties, Danube Properties, Dubai Properties, Ellington Properties, Emaar Properties, Majid Al Futtaim Group, Meraas, Nakheel, Palma Holding, and Wasl.
These partners will support to first-time home buyers through priority access to units in new off-plan launches, and enhanced commercial terms, including preferential pricing on units up to Dhs5m.
Participating banks include Commercial Bank of Dubai, Dubai Islamic Bank, Emirates NBD, Emirates Islamic and Mashreq bank will provide tailored mortgage products designed specifically for eligible buyers.
The programme will continue to onboard new partners post the launch to increase the choice for first time home buyers.
Created for all nationalities and income levels, the programme is open to applicants aged 18 and above who are residents of the UAE, and who do not currently own a freehold residential property in Dubai.
Helal Saeed Almarri, director general of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said: “This initiative represents a powerful economic lever, stimulating long-term demand, driving liquidity into the real estate ecosystem, and accelerating the sector’s contribution to GDP in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.
“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.
“In a global climate where housing accessibility is a structural challenge, Dubai is offering a model of sustainable urban development, one that supports talent retention, fosters community cohesion, and enhances the city’s competitiveness as a place to live, work, and invest.
Omar Bu Shehab, director general of Dubai Land Department (DLD), said: “The First-Time Home Buyer programme embodies Dubai’s strategic vision for a more inclusive, transparent, and accessible real estate market. By easing entry into homeownership, we empower individuals and families to invest in their futures while supporting the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033’s broader objectives and Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
This initiative is a key driver of market resilience and positions Dubai as a global benchmark for sustainable urban development.”
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