What Is the First-Time Home Buyer Programme?
Dubai’s First-Time Home Buyer (FTHB) Programme is a groundbreaking initiative launched by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) in collaboration with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Designed for residents aged 18 and above who have never owned freehold residential property in Dubai, this program aims to make owning a home significantly more accessible and affordable. Properties valued up to AED 5 million are eligible for these benefits.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, you must:
- Be a UAE resident (citizens or expatriates)
- Be 18 years or older
- Not currently own any freehold residential property in Dubai
- Be purchasing a property worth less than AED 5 million
Exclusive Benefits of the Programme
- Priority Access & Preferential Pricing
Registered buyers receive **first access** to new and off-plan property launches from prominent developers, plus preferential pricing and tailored payment terms.
2. Flexible Payment for DLD Fees
DLD registration fees (typically 4%) can be paid through interest-free instalments using eligible credit cards.
3. Mortgage Advantages
Partner banks offer **competitive interest rates, reduced fees, and quicker approval** processes, making financing much smoother for first-time buyers.([Dubai Land Department][1], [Bayut][2])
4. Strong Developer & Bank Partnerships
Developers involved: Azizi, Beyond, Binghatti, Damac, Danube, Dubai Properties, Ellington, Emaar, Majid Al Futtaim, Meraas, Nakheel, Palma Holding, Wasl Participating banks: Commercial Bank of Dubai, Dubai Islamic Bank, Emirates NBD, Emirates Islamic, Mashreq Bank
How to Register and Use the Programme
1. Register online via the official DLD website or the Dubai REST app.
2. Submit your details (such as via UAE Pass).
3. If eligible, you’ll receive a unique QR code via email.
4. Present this QR code when engaging with developers or banks to unlock the benefits.
This QR code remains valid until you complete a property purchase and get it registered.
Why It Matters: Broader Economic Impact
The programme is more than just a perk—it’s part of Dubai’s strategic economic vision. According to officials from DET and DLD, the initiative:
- Supports the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) by boosting homeownership and real estate liquidity
- Strengthens Dubai’s position as a model for sustainable urban development
- Helps retain talent, foster community, and encourage long-term residency
How the Programme Compares to Other Housing Support
Note that Dubai also offers more traditional housing support for its citizens through entities like the Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment, which provides grants and loans based on income and social eligibility criteria.
The FTHB Programme complements these by catering specifically to residents and expats buying their first property, with a focus on financing flexibility and developer-backed deals
Final Thoughts
- Dream of homeownership in Dubai? This programme unlocks exclusive early access, attractive financing, and supportive developers.
- Expats equally eligible, making it a rare inclusive initiative.
- Strong early market response—indicates both demand and confidence in the city’s real estate future.
- Some platform quirks exist, so using the official DLD website tends to be more reliable than the REST app for registrations.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or guiding someone through their journey, Dubai’s First-Time Home Buyer Programme offers a compelling bridge to ownership.
