A Guide for First-Time Homebuyers in Dubai

Buying your first home is an important milestone, and the newly launched First-Time Home Buyer Programme in Dubai is designed to make the process easier. This government initiative was created in partnership with major developers, real estate agents, and banks to provide first-time buyers with better access and more flexible options.

How the Programme Works
As a participant, you can gain several key advantages:

Priority Access: Get early access to new units from developers before they are released to the public.

Exclusive Pricing: Take advantage of special prices on units reserved for programme participants.

Flexible Payments: Use eligible credit cards to pay for registration fees over time.

Competitive Mortgages: Access better loan offers, lower interest rates, and faster approvals from partner banks.

Added Benefits for UAE Citizens: Emirati citizens receive additional support.

Eligibility and Application
To be eligible, you must be a UAE resident at least 18 years old and not currently own any freehold residential property in Dubai. The property you wish to purchase must also be valued under AED 5 million.

Getting started is simple: visit the Dubai Land Department (DLD) website or use the Dubai REST app to sign up. Once approved, you will receive a unique QR code to unlock the programme’s benefits.

Key Benefits and Considerations
Tailored Financial Support: The programme simplifies financing through partnerships with top banks like Commercial Bank of Dubai, Dubai Islamic Bank, Emirates NBD, Emirates Islamic, and Mashreq, which offer options specifically designed for first-time buyers.

No Application Fees: There are no extra fees to apply for or participate in the programme. However, you will still need to pay the standard DLD registration fee (4% of the property value), though you may have the option to pay this in installments. You may also incur standard bank or developer fees.

Developer Reputation: The programme provides access to established and trusted developers, which helps ensure you are investing in a quality property with good long-term value.

Making a Smart Choice: While the programme simplifies the process, it’s still important to avoid common mistakes, such as overlooking community service charges or rushing a decision without fully understanding the payment plan.

Ultimately, the programme aims to make homeownership in Dubai more accessible and less stressful, allowing you to confidently take your first step into the property market.