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First-Time Homeownership Guide in Dubai

4 minutes to read· Updated 03:58 PM,Sep 24,2025

Real estate investment in Dubai is among the best decisions, thanks to the city’s unique advantages, including advanced infrastructure, high-quality services and facilities that meet residents’ expectations, modern transportation networks covering the entire emirate, supportive laws, regulations, and initiatives encouraging property ownership, not to mention the high return on investment—this being the most important factor for many! This article highlights the first-time home ownership program launched by the Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai. What are its conditions? And what are its key benefits?

What is the First-Time Home Ownership Program in Dubai?

The program aims to increase residential property ownership rates across Dubai

As part of supporting Dubai’s economic vision and enhancing residents’ quality of life, the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) announced the launch of its first-ever First-Time Home Ownership Program—a pioneering initiative designed to support UAE nationals and foreign residents in acquiring their first home in the emirate. The program aims to make property ownership more accessible through a range of incentives and benefits, simplifying the process like never before.

Program Objectives

The First-Time Home Ownership Program in Dubai has several key goals, including:

  • Encouraging over 5,000 first-time buyers by 2025
  • Increasing residential property ownership rates in Dubai
  • Supporting market stability in the real estate sector
  • Ensuring sustainable growth in the real estate industry

Benefits of the First-Time Home Ownership Program

The program offers a comprehensive package of privileges to eligible participants, including the following benefits:

  • Prioritized access to residential units in new real estate projects
  • Flexible payment plans for off-plan and ongoing construction projects
  • Convenient options for paying registration fees with the Dubai Land Department
  • Access to property loans at reduced interest rates
  • Automatic eligibility verification for residence programs linked to property ownership
  • Additional exclusive offers from participating developers and banks

Eligibility Conditions for the Program

To qualify for the program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Must be residing in the UAE (either a national or foreign resident)
  • Must not own any freehold property in Dubai
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • The property value must not exceed AED 5 million

*Note: The program can only be used once. Once a residential property is registered in your name, you will no longer be eligible.

How to Register for the Program

Register for the First-Time Home Ownership Program with simple steps

The registration process involves the following steps:

  • Register via the Dubai Land Department website or the Dubai REST app
  • Fill in the required fields
  • If you are eligible, you will receive a confirmation message via email

Program Partners

The program features broad collaboration involving the top 13 real estate developers in Dubai, the five largest banks in the UAE, and numerous real estate brokerage firms. Below are the key partners in the First-Time Home Ownership Support Program in Dubai:

Join

Real Estate Developers

  • Azizi Developments
  • Beyond Developments
  • Binghatti Properties
  • Damac Properties
  • Danube Properties
  • Dubai Properties
  • Ellington Properties
  • EMAAR
  • Majid Al-Futtaim
  • MERAAS
  • NAKHEEL
  • Palma Developments
  • WASL

Banks

  • Dubai Commercial Bank
  • Dubai Islamic Bank
  • Emirates Islamic Bank
  • Emirates NBD
  • Al Mashaer Bank

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve compiled the most common questions about the program for those interested in participating.

Are there any fees for joining the program?

No, there are no application or participation fees for the program.

Is the program only for UAE nationals?

No, it is open to both UAE nationals and foreign residents, provided they are legally residing in the country.

Can real estate agents participate in the program?

Yes, a dedicated online platform has been developed to allow agents to register buyers, verify their eligibility using UAE identity documents, issue QR codes for booking or selling, and assist buyers in securing discounted property loans.

How can I get more information about the program?

If you have any questions about the First-Time Home Ownership Program in Dubai, you can contact the Dubai Land Department or the Department of Economy and Tourism through the numbers listed below:

  • 800 800 4488 | 600 555559

At our platform, we provide a comprehensive guide to the First-Time Home Ownership Program in Dubai, covering its benefits, application steps, objectives, eligibility criteria, target groups, and other essential details. You can explore the pros and cons of purchasing property in Dubai, and we invite you to browse our blog for articles on diverse topics such as buying property in Dubai from abroad.

We hope this saves you time and effort. If you have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments section below—we’ll be happy to respond. Don’t forget to subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay updated on all the latest developments.

*Cover image rights: Official website of Binghatti Properties.

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