New Era for First-time Home Buyers
The “First-Time Home Buyer” program has been launched by Dubai Land Department (DLD) to ensure that homeownership is made available to UAE residents, both Emiratis and expatriates. Initiated in July 2025, the program boasts numerous firsts including but not limited to priority access to fresh launches of properties, preferential pricing, flexible payment schemes, waived or interest-free installments for DLD registration fees, and favorable mortgage options with the relevant banks and developers.
Who is Eligible and What Does it Include
To qualify, the following eligibility conditions apply to the applicants:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a resident in UAE, irrespective of the nationality
- Do not own freehold residential property in Dubai currently
- Have an intention to purchase property worth less than AED 5 million
Benefits:
- Priority access to new releases by the country’s top developers, including Emaar, Nakheel, DAMAC, Wasl, Binghatti, Danube, Meraas, Azizi, Ellington, Beyond, Dubai Properties, Palma Holding, and Majid Al Futtaim.
- Special deals such as Binghatti’s 5% discount for all projects – no location restrictions.
- Installment-based DLD registration payments with Zero interest.
- Mortgage support with low rates and quick approvals from Emirates NBD, Dubai Islamic Bank, Emirates Islamic, Mashreq, and Commercial Bank of Dubai.
This scheme is also harmonized with some other wider strategic documents such as Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33 and Real Estate Strategy2033 for collective growth and talent retention.
A Simple 5-step Application Process
- Register online through the official DLD website or Dubai REST app will entail submission of details for eligibility check with regard to allowances being processed.
- Receive a QR code that is unique to you – your digital access key to all benefits of the program.
- Explore properties of the participating developers that offer freehold and ready-to-move-in first-time buyer specials.
- Now earn mortgage pre-approval with your program-affiliated banks, knowing you have been pre-judged through your QR code.
- Close the deal, using the incentives – including installment-based DLD fees, developer discounts, and attractive financing. After registration, your QR code remains operational until the property is officially registered.
Why This Is the Ideal Moment to Buy
By lessening the entry threshold with cost-effective financing, accompanied by the prime developers and the best banks, the project has increased the empowerment of prospective homebuyers. Wasl, for instance, has dedicated new phases in Jebel Ali to entry-level buyers, while Binghatti’s discounts free of restriction make options look even more attractive.
Property aficionados on the lookout for Golden Visa through property investments worth AED 2 million+ may also find this program as a wonderful launching pad—translating investment and lifelong residency into reality with intentionality for both.