Introduction: A New Path to Homeownership in Dubai
Buying your first home is a major life milestone, and Dubai has now made this journey easier than ever with the First Home Ownership Program – a powerful initiative launched by the Dubai Land Department. Designed specifically for first-time buyers, this program offers a combination of exclusive property deals, simplified procedures, and personalized financial support.
Whether you’re an expat or a UAE national, this program is your gateway to owning a dream home in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
What Is the First Home Ownership Program?
The First Home Ownership Program is a government-backed initiative that supports individuals in buying their first residential property in Dubai. It offers:
Priority access to newly launched real estate projects
Exclusive discounts on off-plan and ready-to-move-in units
Interest-free installment plans for registration fees
Flexible mortgage options at competitive interest rates
Additional benefits for Emirati nationals
Key Benefits of the Program
Qualified applicants will enjoy a wide range of advantages, including:
1. Preferential Property Prices
Get special discounted rates on properties from top developers, both off-plan and completed.
2. Flexible Payment Plans
Choose easy installment options for off-plan properties, making it easier to plan your finances.
3. Registration Fee Installments
Pay Dubai Land Department registration fees using selected credit cards with 0% interest installment plans.
4. Competitive Mortgage Solutions
Access tailored home loans with lower interest rates and reduced processing fees from partner banks.
5. Special Offers
Receive exclusive incentives and value-added deals from developers and banks participating in the program.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
To qualify for the program, you must meet the following criteria:
Be a UAE resident (open to all nationalities)
Be 18 years or older
Do not currently own any freehold residential property in Dubai
The property you intend to purchase must be below AED 5 million
Note: Owning property in another emirate or in a leasehold area does not affect your eligibility.
Partner Developers
This program collaborates with Dubai’s leading developers, including:
Emaar Properties
DAMAC Properties
Meraas
Nakheel
Azizi Developments
Binghatti Developers
Ellington Properties
Dubai Properties Group
Danube Properties
Majid Al Futtaim
Wasl Properties
Palma Holding
Beyond Properties
Participating Banks
Take advantage of special mortgage solutions from trusted UAE banks:
Dubai Islamic Bank
Emirates NBD
Commercial Bank of Dubai
Emirates Islamic Bank
Mashreq Bank
How to Apply for the Program
Follow these simple steps to enroll in the program:
Visit the Dubai Land Department website or download the “Dubai REST” mobile app.
Submit the required documents and complete the registration form.
If eligible, you will receive a confirmation email containing your unique QR code.
Use the QR code to access program benefits from approved developers and banks.
You will continue to receive early notifications about new property launches and offers after registration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there a fee to join the program?
No. Registration in the First Home Ownership Program is free of charge. However, standard DLD registration fees, developer charges, or bank service fees may still apply.
Can I apply without taking a mortgage?
Yes. Taking a loan is optional. But if you do need financing, special home loan offers are available through partner banks.
Can I work with more than one developer or bank?
You can explore offers from multiple parties, but final benefits apply through only one approved developer and one partner bank.
What if I don’t find a suitable property right away?
No worries – your eligibility remains valid, and you’ll continue to receive early alerts on new real estate projects.
Can I rejoin the program after selling the purchased home?
No. Once you’ve bought a home through the program, you are no longer considered a first-time buyer and cannot re-enroll, even if you sell the property later.
Can I co-buy with someone who is not eligible?
No. Joint ownership is only allowed between two eligible applicants in the program.
