Dubai has taken a major step toward encouraging long-term homeownership. On July 2, 2025, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) officially launched the First-Time Home Buyer Dubai Programme. This initiative is designed to make owning a home in Dubai more accessible for UAE residents and expatriates — especially those buying a property for the first time.
The new First-Time Home Buyer Dubai initiative makes it easier than ever to transition from renting to owning.
This marks a major shift from Dubai’s historically investor-driven property market. Now, the focus is on helping individuals and families settle in Dubai, with real incentives like lower mortgage rates, waived fees, and fast-tracked approvals.
✅ Who Can Apply for the First-Time Home Buyer Dubai Programme?
This programme is open to a wide group of people, making it incredibly inclusive. To qualify, you must:
- Be a UAE resident, including expatriates
- Be 18 years or older
- Hold a valid UAE residency visa
- Be purchasing a home for personal use, not investment
- Be buying a property valued under AED 5 million
- Never have owned a freehold home in the UAE
📩 Check your eligibility now — our team at SettleIn can help you get pre-approved and guide you through every step.
💰 Key Benefits for First-Time Buyers
🏦 Mortgage & Financial Advantages
First-time home buyers in Dubai can enjoy significant financial perks:
- Sub-4% mortgage interest rates (better than market average)
- Lower mortgage processing fees
- Faster loan approvals through participating banks
- Zero-interest registration fees
- Interest-free installment options for registration via eligible credit cards
These benefits reduce your upfront costs and help you become a homeowner with ease.
🏗️ Developer Benefits
In addition to mortgage savings, you get priority access to some of Dubai’s best new properties:
- Early access to off-plan launches
- Preferential pricing and promotions
- Custom mortgage solutions via the DLD platform
- Flexible payment plans from developers
Participating banks include Emirates NBD, Dubai Islamic Bank, Mashreq Bank, Commercial Bank of Dubai, and Emirates Islamic Bank.
🔍 Compare mortgage rates and see which lender offers the best option for your first home.
📋 How to Apply
The application process is simple, transparent, and 100% free:
- Fill out the First-Time Home Buyer form via the DLD platform
- Receive a QR code valid until your home is purchased
- Authorize sharing of your credit score with banks
- Developers may contact you with offers and pricing
There are no hidden fees or third-party costs involved.
📊 Why the First-Time Home Buyer Dubai Programme Is a Market Game Changer
This programme signals a strategic shift in Dubai’s real estate approach — from an investor-first model to a resident-first vision. While it doesn’t lower property prices directly, it significantly lowers financial entry barriers, making homeownership more realistic for residents.
Moreover, this programme aligns with Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan, which focuses on livability, sustainability, and long-term community development. It’s a clear invitation to settle in Dubai and build a life — not just rent.
🧭 Why First-Time Buyers Should Act Now
If you’ve been thinking about owning a home in Dubai, now is the time. Here’s why:
- It’s the first government programme tailored for first-time buyers
- You’ll get better mortgage rates and terms
- Developer incentives and government support are at their peak
- Priority access means you get the best units before the public
- You’ll reduce financial risk and break free from rental cycles
🏠 SettleIn Can Help You Buy Through the First-Time Home Buyer Dubai Programme
At SettleIn, we specialize in helping first-time buyers navigate Dubai’s mortgage and property market. Whether you’re comparing banks or finding your dream home, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
If you’re eligible for the First-Time Home Buyer Dubai programme, SettleIn can help you unlock the best rates and exclusive developer offers.
With SettleIn, you can:
- ✅ Get pre-approved under the new programme
- ✅ Compare sub-4% mortgage offers from top UAE banks
- ✅ Access zero-interest registration fee options
- ✅ Secure off-plan units before they launch publicly
- ✅ Enjoy flexible payment plans and real-time updates
📩 Contact SettleIn today to take the first step toward owning your dream home in Dubai.
