Dubai has launched an exciting new program to help first-time property buyers achieve their homeownership dreams. The "First Property Ownership" program offers significant financial benefits and makes buying your first home more affordable than ever.

What Is the First-Time Buyer Program?

The Dubai Land Department introduced this program in July 2025 to support UAE residents in purchasing their first property. It's designed to reduce costs and provide better financing options for eligible buyers.

Key Benefits:

• Up to 10% price reduction on participating properties

• Extended financing up to 18 years

• Installment payments for the 4% DLD registration fee

• Priority access to new project launches

• Interest-free payment options for registration fees

• Preferential financing rates from participating banks

Who Can Apply?

Eligibility Requirements:

• Age: 18 years or older

• Residency: Valid UAE resident

• Property ownership: No current freehold property ownership in Dubai

• Property value: Maximum AED 5 million

• One-time benefit: Program can only be used once

Required Documents:

• Emirates ID

• Valid UAE visa

• Salary certificate or income proof

• Bank statements (last 6 months)

• No-objection certificate from employer (if applicable)

How Much Can You Save?

Example Savings on AED 2 Million Property:

• Developer discount (10%): AED 200,000

• Registration fee installments: Improved cash flow

• Preferential financing: Lower interest rates

• Total potential savings: AED 200,000+

Registration Fee Benefits:

Instead of paying AED 80,000 upfront (4% of AED 2M), you can:

• Pay in installments over time

• Use interest-free credit card options

• Improve your cash flow management

Application Process

Step 1: Check Eligibility

• Verify you meet all requirements

• Gather required documents

• Confirm property value is under AED 5 million

Step 2: Submit Application

• Apply through Dubai Land Department

• Provide all required documentation

• Wait for approval (typically 2-4 weeks)

Step 3: Get Approved

• Receive beneficiary status

• Access participating developer networks

• Start property search with priority access

Step 4: Purchase Property

• Choose from participating developments

• Coordinate with developer sales teams

• Complete purchase with program benefits

Participating Developers

The program includes many major developers across Dubai:

• Ready properties: Immediate move-in options

• Off-plan properties: New launches with early access

• Various locations: Communities across Dubai

• Different price ranges: Options within the AED 5M limit

Important Things to Know

Program Limitations:

• One-time use only: Cannot be used for future purchases

• Property value cap: Maximum AED 5 million

• Participating developers only: Not all projects qualify

• Residency requirement: Must maintain UAE residency

Timeline Considerations:

• Application processing: 2-4 weeks

• Beneficiary status: Valid for program duration

• Property search: Priority access to new launches

• Purchase completion: Standard property buying process

Tips for Success

Before Applying:

• Research participating developers and their projects

• Calculate your budget including all costs

• Get pre-approved for financing to understand your limits

• Prepare all documents to avoid delays

During the Process:

• Stay in touch with the DLD for updates

• Monitor new launches from participating developers

• Compare different projects to find the best value

• Work with experienced agents who understand the program

After Approval:

• Act quickly on good opportunities

• Negotiate additional benefits where possible

• Review all contracts carefully before signing

• Plan for ongoing costs like service charges and utilities

Common Questions

Can I use this program for investment properties?

No, the program is specifically for first-time homebuyers who will live in the property.

What happens if I sell the property later?

You can sell the property normally, but you cannot use the first-time buyer program again.

Are all areas of Dubai included?

The program covers participating developments across Dubai, but not every project qualifies.

Can I combine this with other financing offers?

Yes, you can often combine program benefits with bank financing offers for additional savings.

Why Professional Guidance Helps

Navigating the first-time buyer program involves multiple steps, documentation requirements, and coordination with developers. Many buyers find the process complex and benefit from working with agents who understand:

• Program application procedures

• Participating developer networks

• Financing coordination

• Timeline management

• Documentation requirements

Ready to Start Your Homeownership Journey?

The First-Time Buyer Program offers significant savings and support for eligible buyers. With proper planning and guidance, you can take advantage of these benefits to purchase your first home in Dubai.

Connect with experienced brokers who understand the First-Time Buyer Program and can guide you through the application process and property selection.

Disclaimer: The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or investment advice. The inclusion of any real estate agency, individual agent, or service is not an endorsement, recommendation, or guarantee of quality or performance. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research, consult with licensed professionals, and verify credentials or certifications directly with the Dubai Land Department (DLD) or appropriate regulatory bodies before making any real estate decisions.

BrokeryHero and the authors of this article disclaim any liability for decisions made based on the content herein.