Dubai’s First-Time Buyer Program: A New Path to Homeownership
Discover exclusive pricing, flexible mortgages, and priority access for residents buying properties in Dubai for the first time
Owning a home in Dubai has just become far more accessible. Whether you’re a long-term resident, a working professional, or a young family looking to build roots, a new government-backed initiative is changing the landscape of buying properties in Dubai. Through this inclusive program, the city now offers first-time buyers a strategic entry point into the real estate market, making homeownership both achievable and rewarding.
At Homesphere Real Estate, a leading real estate agency in Dubai, we are excited to guide you through this opportunity. As market experts, we understand how this new initiative aligns with investor needs, lifestyle aspirations, and long-term value.
Let’s explore how this program works, who it’s for, and how you can benefit from it right now.
A Government-Backed Push Toward Resident Homeownership
Launched by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) in collaboration with the Department of Economy and Tourism, the “Own First Home” initiative is designed to increase end-user ownership among UAE residents. Over 13 developers, including major names like Emaar, Damac, Azizi, and Nakheel, have already signed up, along with five banks and property platforms such as Bayut, Property Finder, and Dubizzle.
Eligible residents will gain:
- Preferential pricing on new residential units
- Priority access to off-plan launches
- Flexible payment plans supported by partner banks
- Extended mortgage terms up to 18 years
- Zero-interest registration fee payment
(Source: Khaleej Times, Gulf News, July 2025)
This program is part of Dubai’s wider D33 strategy, aimed at boosting economic growth, improving quality of life, and positioning the emirate as one of the best cities in the world to live and invest in.
Explore Luxury Properties for Sale with Homesphere Real Estate. Contact us today for your personalized consultation.
Who Can Apply?
This initiative is open to all UAE residents aged 18 and above, regardless of nationality, provided they:
- Hold a valid Emirates ID
- Have never owned property in the UAE
- Are buying a home valued under AED 5 million (USD 1.4 million)
Whether you’re searching for a seafront apartment or a family villa, the application process is designed to be simple. You can register through the Dubai REST app or the DLD website, where you’ll be asked to select your preferences, budget, and how you’d like to be contacted. Developers and banks will then contact you directly based on your submission.
Importantly, there are no restrictions on reselling or leasing the property, giving buyers flexibility for future planning.
Designed for Mid-Income Buyers: A Market Breakthrough
A unique aspect of the program is its accessibility to mid-income residents, particularly those earning between AED 15,000–20,000 per month. Developers are offering discounts of up to 10% on qualifying properties, while banks are adjusting salary requirements to accommodate a broader pool of applicants.
This level of flexibility is a first for Dubai’s property sector, aiming to expand the buyer base beyond high-net-worth investors. With mortgage tenors extended up to 18 years, many residents will find monthly payments more affordable than current rent prices.
As Tizian Raab of Azizi Developments stated to Gulf News (2025), “This initiative opens the door to buyers who were previously sidelined. It signals a more inclusive market that encourages long-term investment.”
Why This Matters: From Renter to Investor
Dubai currently attracts over 10,000 new property investors every month, according to Majid Al Marri, CEO of the Real Estate Registration Sector at DLD (WhatsOn, 2025). This initiative is expected to increase that number significantly by empowering residents to transition from renters to owners.
Owning property in Dubai is not just about security and independence — it also unlocks long-term benefits such as:
- Asset appreciation in high-demand areas
- High rental returns if you choose to lease
- Pathways to long-term residency
The program is perfectly timed with a growing demand for lifestyle-centric communities and a broader government vision to grow Dubai’s population to 5.8 million by 2040.
Looking for expert guidance on buying properties in Dubai? Let our team at Homesphere Real Estate help you take the first step toward ownership.
How Homesphere Real Estate Can Support You
As a top-performing real estate agency in Dubai, Homesphere Real Estate is here to guide first-time buyers through every stage of this journey. We offer:
- Access to exclusive listings from participating developers
- Up-to-date knowledge on available payment plans and financing terms
- Personalized consultations based on your goals and budget
- Full support with registration, selection, and negotiation
Our expertise spans a wide range of developments tailored to first-time buyers, from entry-level units to premium residences. Whether you’re seeking affordability, location, or long-term value, we match you with properties that meet your needs under the new initiative.
A Smarter Path to Property Ownership Starts Now
Dubai’s first-time homeownership initiative is more than a policy — it’s a shift in accessibility and opportunity. With support from top developers and financial institutions, residents now have a real pathway to ownership with pricing, plans, and terms designed to make buying easier than ever.
Whether you’re a salaried professional, newlywed couple, or young entrepreneur, this is your chance to build equity, create stability, and be part of one of the world’s most dynamic real estate markets.
Homesphere Real Estate is here to ensure you make the most of this opportunity with expert guidance and unmatched access.
Ready to explore your options?
Contact Homesphere Real Estate today to schedule your property tour, receive updates on qualifying projects, or begin your first home purchase with confidence.