In a strategic push to promote property ownership and economic stability among long-term residents, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) has launched the First Home Initiative — a government-backed scheme offering a unique opportunity for first-time buyers to own property in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Launched in 2024 and now fully active in 2025, the program offers reduced fees, financing support, and access to pre-approved properties. Whether you’re a Dubai resident dreaming of buying your first apartment or an expat family considering long-term settlement, this initiative is a game-changer.
Let’s break down what the First Home program offers, who qualifies, how to apply, and why it’s a significant development for Dubai’s real estate sector.
🔹 What is Dubai’s First Home Program?
The First Home Program is a dedicated initiative by the Dubai Land Department to encourage long-term tenants to become first-time property owners. It provides:
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Reduced down payments on select properties
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Access to approved units by vetted developers
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Streamlined mortgage approval
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Waived DLD registration fees in some cases
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Faster processing for eligible applicants
This is part of Dubai’s vision to enhance residential stability, promote financial independence, and diversify the property market by targeting genuine end-users rather than short-term investors.
🔹 Official Announcements and Resources
The initiative was first detailed on the DLD official eServices portal, which also provides a full list of participating developers and properties.
📌 Official & News Sources:
🔹 Who Is Eligible for the Program?
To qualify for the First Home program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
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✅ Must be a resident of Dubai with a valid residency visa and Emirates ID
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✅ Must be a first-time buyer (no property ownership in Dubai or elsewhere)
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✅ Must have stable income and be employed or self-employed
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✅ Must be purchasing the home for personal use, not investment
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✅ Must meet bank affordability requirements (monthly income vs. liabilities)
⚠️ Note:
There may be age restrictions and minimum salary requirements depending on the financing partner or developer.
🔹 Key Benefits of the First Home Initiative
Dubai’s First Home scheme offers several financial and procedural advantages that ease the transition from renting to owning:
💸 Financial Incentives:
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Lower Down Payments: Starting from 5% with some banks
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Waived DLD Fees: In select units and communities
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Reduced Broker Fees: If you apply through the platform
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Exclusive Developer Offers: Special prices, free maintenance, and no service charges for 1–2 years
📋 Administrative Ease:
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Dedicated property listings for first-time buyers
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Priority processing for mortgage approvals and DLD registration
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Support throughout the application process
🔹 Step-by-Step Guide to Apply
Here’s a simplified walkthrough of how to apply for the program:
1. Visit the DLD Portal
Go to dubailand.gov.ae and select the “First-Time Buyer” tab.
2. Register Your Profile
Use your Emirates ID and mobile number to create your account.
3. Submit Documents
Prepare and upload:
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Emirates ID
how to buy first home dubai -
Passport and visa
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Salary certificate or trade license
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Bank statements (6 months)
4. Explore Properties
Browse the pre-approved listings and choose based on location, budget, and developer offers.
5. Pre-Approval & Financing
Apply for mortgage pre-approval via listed partner banks. Some may offer exclusive rates for First Home applicants.
6. Finalize Purchase
Once your financing is approved and all documents verified, proceed with the registration and handover process — all through the DLD platform.
🔹 Role of Developers and Financial Institutions
Developers play a crucial role in supporting this initiative:
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Select Units: Only projects registered and approved by DLD are eligible
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Discounted Pricing: Special rates and payment plans offered exclusively for this program
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Zero Commission Offers: In some cases, agents are paid by developers directly
Banks, meanwhile, offer:
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Pre-negotiated mortgage rates
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Fast-tracked processing
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Long tenures up to 25 years
This cooperation makes the purchase journey smoother and more affordable for genuine buyers.
🔹 Impact on Dubai’s Real Estate Market
The First Home Program marks a significant shift from investment-heavy activity to a more end-user centric market. Analysts predict:
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🏘️ Increased demand in the mid-market segment
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📉 Potential cooling of rental inflation
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🧑💼 More stable communities with long-term residents
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🏦 Growth in domestic mortgage lending
As thousands of renters enter the ownership cycle, developers are expected to diversify offerings — benefiting both the economy and residents.
🔹 Regional Comparison: How Dubai Leads
Unlike Saudi Arabia’s Sakani program (targeted at nationals) or Abu Dhabi’s citizen housing grants, Dubai’s First Home initiative is:
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Open to expatriates
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Entirely digital
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Private-public partnership driven
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Focused on affordability and transparency
This makes it unique in the GCC — especially considering Dubai’s large non-citizen population.
🔹 Challenges and Watchouts
Despite its benefits, buyers should consider:
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Location limitations: Only select communities are included
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Developer due diligence: Always check project history and reviews
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Affordability: Be mindful of maintenance and service charges
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Exit barriers: Some units have lock-in periods before resale
It’s still critical to review legal contracts with a licensed real estate consultant or lawyer before signing.
🔹 Long-Term Outlook
Dubai’s housing model is evolving. As the population passes 3.7 million, the government is prioritizing permanent residency, retirement options, and now, first-time homeownership.
By 2030, Dubai aims to:
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Increase the share of owner-occupied homes
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Expand eligibility to more buyer profiles
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Offer “rent-to-own” options under future programs
🔹 FAQs – Dubai’s First Home Program
Q: Who is eligible for the program?
A: Dubai residents with valid visas who have never owned property before.
Q: Are there income requirements?
A: Yes, each bank will assess affordability based on salary and monthly liabilities.
Q: Can I choose any property in Dubai?
A: No, only DLD-approved properties listed under the program are eligible.
Q: Can I rent out the home after I buy it?
A: Most properties require a 3–5 year occupancy period before you can rent or sell.
Q: Is there an age limit?
A: Generally, applicants must be over 21, with financing typically ending by age 65–70.
Q: Do I need a broker or agent?
A: No, you can apply directly online, though you may still consult an agent for guidance.
Q: How long does the application take?
A: Mortgage pre-approval can take 3–7 working days. Full registration may take 2–3 weeks.
Q: Are off-plan properties eligible?
A: Yes, selected off-plan units from participating developers are part of the scheme.
🔚 Conclusion: A New Era of Ownership
The First Home Program isn’t just a real estate policy — it’s a social milestone. Dubai is signaling that long-term residents deserve a permanent stake in the city’s future.
With the right planning, support, and awareness, this could be your path to ownership in one of the world’s safest, most innovative cities.
If you’re a renter dreaming of planting roots — this is your sign. 🌆🏡
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