Dubai launches initiative to assist first-time home buyers

Dubai has launched a programme for first-time home buyers, aiming to make homeownership more accessible and affordable by facilitating priority access to new launches, preferential pricing and tailored mortgage solutions. 

The First-Time Home Buyer Programme is applicable to properties less than AED 5 million and accessible to Emirati and expatriates of all nationalities and income levels, and to applicants aged 18 and above who are residents of the UAE. 

Khalid Al Shaibani, Director of Rental Affairs Department at Dubai Land Department, told Dubai Eye 103.8's The Agenda that the programme offers a flexible payment plan, either from the developer or special interest rates through banks. 

He added that the 4 per cent fee charged by the mainland department could be paid in interest-free installments over two years, with the aim to attract 5,000 new buyers this year. 

Leading developers have reportedly already committed to the programme, promising to support first-time home buyers through priority access to units in new off-plan launches, and enhanced commercial terms, including preferential pricing.

Participating banks will provide "tailored mortgage products designed specifically for eligible buyers," as the programme reportedly continues to onboard new partners to increase the choice for buyers.

Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said the initiative marks a "significant milestone" for the real estate sector.

It "represents a powerful economic lever - stimulating long-term demand, driving liquidity into the real estate ecosystem and accelerating the sector’s contribution to GDP in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. By lowering entry barriers to homeownership for Emiratis and expatriates alike, we are enhancing investor confidence, increasing market absorption rates, and reinforcing Dubai’s global positioning as a city where personal aspirations and business ambitions converge," Almarri said. 

“In a global climate where housing accessibility is a structural challenge, Dubai is offering a model of sustainable urban development - one that supports talent retention, fosters community cohesion, and enhances the city’s competitiveness as a place to live, work, and invest."