The programme, jointly launched by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) in July 2025, has already generated more than Dh5 billion in residential transactions and helped over 3,200 residents purchase their first homes. Nearly 45,000 residents have registered in less than a year.
The latest expansion adds nine new developers: Arada, Dubai World Trade Centre, IRTH Group, Manam, Qube Development, Reportage Properties, SAMANA Developers, Sky View Real Estate and 4Direction Developments. This broadens the range of available homes across different communities, budgets and property types.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to UAE residents of any nationality who are aged 18 or above, do not own a freehold residential property in Dubai, and are purchasing a property worth up to Dh5 million. Applications can be submitted through the Dubai Land Department website or the Dubai REST app.
Eligible applicants receive a QR code that unlocks programme benefits with participating developers and banks.
Key Benefits for First-Time Buyers
Registered buyers now enjoy advantages generally not available to repeat purchasers:
- Priority access to new launches: Early access to selected projects before units are released to the wider market
- Preferential pricing: Exclusive prices on selected units reserved for programme participants
- Better mortgage terms: Five partner banks offer tailored products with preferential interest rates, reduced fees and faster approvals
- Lower upfront costs: Interest-free instalment plans on Dubai Land Department registration fees through eligible credit cards
- Flexible payment plans: Customized payment structures for off-plan purchases, spreading costs over longer periods
How to Register
The process remains straightforward:
- Register through the DLD website or Dubai REST app
- Verify eligibility using Emirates ID and residency details
- Receive a First-Time Home Buyer QR code
- Use the QR code when engaging with participating developers and banks
- Compare eligible properties, financing options and payment plans
- Complete mortgage approval and property purchase
For residents weighing up rising rents against buying a home, the programme offers a clear pathway to ownership. With residential sales through the scheme now exceeding Dh5 billion and developer participation expanding, first-time buyers in Dubai have more options than ever before.
The initiative aligns with the UAE’s broader effort to encourage long-term residency and homeownership, building on recent measures including expanded VAT refund eligibility for UAE nationals and a sustained focus on investor-friendly regulations.