In July 2025, Dubai officially launched the Dubai First-Time Buyer Scheme, a transformative initiative designed to make property ownership in Dubai more accessible to residents. Open to all UAE residents aged 18 and above, this programme allows eligible individuals to purchase property using only their Emirates ID, without the need for a complex income check or existing home loan history.
With the backing of the Dubai Land Department (DLD), 13 of the UAE’s most prominent developers, and five leading banks, this move is expected to bring at least 5,000 new investors into the market during the second half of 2025. Here’s a detailed look at what the scheme includes, how it works, and why it matters for the future of the Dubai real estate market.
What Is the Dubai First-Time Buyer Scheme?
The Dubai First-Time Buyer Scheme is a government-backed programme that offers first-time home buyers the ability to enter the property market in Dubai with simplified conditions and financial benefits. Available to UAE residents aged 18 and older, the scheme allows buyers to purchase property worth up to AED 5 million.
The initiative was created during a strong upward trend in the property market, as Dubai aims to encourage more people, especially residents to invest in the emirate’s real estate sector. The Dubai Land Department is working with both developers and banks to offer an integrated solution with flexible payment options, preferential pricing, and zero-interest DLD registration fee installment plans.
Once a participant purchases a property through this programme, they cannot apply again, even if they sell their first home. This ensures the scheme remains targeted to those entering the market for the first time.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the Dubai First-Time Buyer Scheme, you must:
- Be a UAE resident aged 18 or older
- Hold a valid Emirates ID
- Not own any freehold property in Dubai
There is no minimum salary requirement, and eligibility does not depend on nationality. Financial pre-approvals and lending conditions are determined by the participating banks.
According to Khalid Al-Shaibani, Director of the Rental Affairs Department at the DLD, the objective is to “support first-time investors” and make home ownership more feasible for residents who have never bought property in Dubai before.
Who Is Involved?
The programme involves a broad partnership between public and private sectors. A total of 13 developers and five banks have officially joined the launch, including:
Developers:
- Emaar
- Nakheel
- Damac
- Meraas
- Wasl
- Dubai Properties
- Majid Al Futtaim
- Danube
- Ellington
- Binghatti
- Palma Development
- Azizi
- Beyond Developments
Banks:
These banks are offering mortgage options with favorable rates and interest-free payment of DLD registration fees via credit cards or direct bank installments. Developers are expected to provide early access to new launches, discounted pricing, and flexible payment plans.
How to Apply
UAE residents interested in the Dubai First-Time Buyer Scheme can apply through:
- The Dubai REST App
- The Dubai Land Department website
Applicants must submit their Emirates ID, complete a digital registration, and get pre-approved by a participating bank. Once approved, buyers can browse through a list of eligible properties and choose units that fit their needs.
For those who prefer not to register online, help is also available at DLD offices.
Main Benefits of the Scheme
The scheme offers several practical advantages for first-time home buyers in Dubai:
- No salary threshold – banks determine lending eligibility
- Property value up to AED 5 million
- Interest-free DLD fee installment options
- Exclusive access to new units and launches
- Flexible payment terms from participating developers
- Preferential pricing
- Streamlined digital registration via Dubai REST App
This structure is designed to help UAE residents move from renting to owning, with minimum friction and maximum support from the government and private sector.
Why Now? The Market Context
This initiative comes at a time when Dubai’s property market is at a record high. According to the Dubai Media Office, the emirate recorded AED 761 billion in property transactions in 2024, with over 226,000 deals, marking a 36% year-on-year increase.
Majid Al Marri, CEO of the Real Estate Registration Sector at the DLD, explained that the Dubai First-Time Buyer Scheme is part of the department’s long-term vision to reach AED 1 trillion in real estate transactions by 2033.
“This programme will attract new investors and help us achieve that strategy,” Al Marri said. He also confirmed the DLD is open to partnering with more developers and expanding the initiative based on market response.
The Developer and Investor Response
The market has responded positively. Developers such as Danube and Majid Al Futtaim have welcomed the initiative, saying it lowers the psychological and financial barriers for those considering entering the market.
“It will provide an opportunity to people who are just thinking but not able to buy,” said Ghayyour Ahmad Khan, Director of Projects at Danube Properties. “It will be good for the market and for the new customers.”
The initiative is also seen as a key driver for long-term growth. Alongside other reforms like residency permits for retirees, the remote work visa, and the expansion of the Golden Visa programme, Dubai is actively positioning itself as one of the most investor-friendly cities in the world.
What’s Next for Dubai’s Property Sector?
The launch of the Dubai First-Time Buyer Scheme is part of a broader set of 2025 initiatives to boost the real estate market. These include:
- A smart rental index rating system (1–5 stars)
- A pilot project for real estate tokenisation
- Easier access to government services for property owners
- Continued partnerships with leading developers and banks
Though some analysts, such as Fitch Ratings, have forecast a moderate correction in prices by the end of 2025, DLD officials remain confident. “The curve is up,” said Al Marri. “We see more people entering the market and strong demand for upcoming launches.”
Conclusion
The Dubai First-Time Buyer Scheme represents a bold and inclusive step toward home ownership for thousands of UAE residents. With only an Emirates ID, residents now have access to discounted pricing, flexible terms, and support from Dubai’s leading developers and banks.
Backed by the Dubai Land Department, this initiative not only supports individuals looking to buy their first home but also aligns with Dubai’s vision for long-term growth, financial inclusion, and global competitiveness in real estate.
For many, this is a rare chance to stop renting and get on the property ladder with minimal paperwork and maximum government support. Whether you’re a young professional, a long-term resident, or a newly eligible investor, the Dubai First-Time Buyer Scheme could be the key to owning your dream home in Dubai.
