In a move set to reshape the city’s housing market, Dubai has unveiled a new initiative to make property ownership more accessible for both Emiratis and expatriates. The First-Time Home Buyer Programme, jointly launched by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), offers exclusive benefits to residents seeking to purchase their first home.
Announced on 2 July at a press conference attended by senior officials and industry stakeholders, the programme is designed to boost homeownership through preferential pricing, priority access to new developments, and customised mortgage products.
The scheme supports the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033, which aims to double the real estate sector’s contribution to GDP, and is a key pillar of the broader Dubai Economic Agenda D33, focused on making the city a global economic hub.
“This initiative represents a powerful economic lever—stimulating long-term demand, driving liquidity into the real estate ecosystem, and accelerating the sector’s contribution to GDP,” said His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of DET.
With housing affordability emerging as a global challenge, Almarri said Dubai is positioning itself as a “model of sustainable urban development” that promotes community wellbeing, supports talent retention, and strengthens economic resilience.
His Excellency Omar Bu Shehab, Director General of DLD, added that the initiative reflects a strategic vision to make Dubai’s real estate market more “inclusive, transparent, and accessible.” By reducing barriers to entry, the programme helps individuals and families invest in long-term security and prosperity, he noted.
The initiative is open to all UAE residents aged 18 and over who do not currently own freehold residential property in Dubai, regardless of nationality or income level.
A major feature of the programme is collaboration with leading developers, including Emaar, Nakheel, DAMAC, Meraas, and Azizi Developments. These firms will offer priority access to units in new off-plan launches and preferential prices on properties valued up to AED 5 million.
Key financial partners—Commercial Bank of Dubai, Dubai Islamic Bank, Emirates NBD, Emirates Islamic, and Mashreq Bank—have also joined the initiative. These banks will provide tailored mortgage solutions to eligible buyers, aiming to make financing more flexible and achievable.
Officials say the programme will expand further, with more developers and banks expected to come on board in the coming months.
The First-Time Home Buyer Programme also aligns with the UAE’s Year of Community, promoting social cohesion and reinforcing Dubai’s appeal as a place to live, work, and invest.
By offering a supportive path to homeownership, the initiative underscores the city’s commitment to sustainable development and long-term prosperity. For many residents, it could mark a first step toward laying down lasting roots in Dubai.
