The new initiative makes owning your first home in the city more accessible than ever.

Owning property in Dubai has long been seen as the ultimate sign of putting down roots in the city of dreams. While the appeal of investing in the emirate is clear, rising rents and upfront costs have often made the path to ownership challenging, particularly if you’re a first-time home buyer in Dubai. That’s now changing, thanks to a brand-new government-backed initiative that could make stepping onto the property ladder more achievable than ever.

Launched by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the First-Time Home Buyer Programme is designed to empower first-time buyers, whether they’re Emirati nationals or expat residents, to finally call a piece of Dubai their own.

What are the benefits? 

Those enrolled in the programme will get priority access to new off-plan launches from leading developers, often before they’re released to the general market. Add to that preferential pricing on properties valued at up to AED 5 million, and you’ve already got a compelling reason to register.

But it doesn’t stop there. Registration fees with the DLD can be paid in instalments, easing the financial burden for those who may be struggling with upfront costs. Plus, participating developers and banks may offer extended payment plans, waived service charges, and even complimentary upgrades on select units.

Who can apply?

If you’re a UAE resident, over the age of 18, and have never owned property in Dubai, then you’re good to go, regardless of your income bracket. The only catch? The property must be valued at AED 5 million or less.

How to register?

Registering is simple and straightforward. Simply visit the DLD website, fill in your personal details and property preferences, and once approved, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a unique QR code. From there, you’ll have access to properties from some of the biggest names in Dubai real estate, including EMAAR, DAMAC, Nakheel, Meraas, Ellington Properties, Azizi, Binghatti, and more.

So if you’ve been wondering if you’ll ever own a place in Dubai, this could be your sign. The First-Time Home Buyer Programme in Dubai is here to make that dream a reality, helping renters become homeowners and opening the door to a more stable future in the UAE.

GO: Visit www.dubailand.gov.ae for more information.