Dubai has launched a major initiative to make homeownership more accessible: The First-Time Home Buyer Programme by the Dubai Land Department (DLD). As a trusted real estate advisory in Dubai, WaterWorld Realty is here to help you navigate this opportunity, offering clear guidance, personalised support, and direct access to the city’s most credible developers and lenders.
What Is the First-Time Home Buyer Programme?
This initiative is part of Dubai’s Real Estate Strategy 2033 and aims to empower residents to transition from renting to owning by offering financial incentives, special deals, and fast-tracked services. It connects eligible buyers with trusted developers, banks, and registration support in one seamless experience.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify, buyers must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a UAE resident (any nationality)
- At least 18 years of age
- Must not currently own any freehold residential property in Dubai
- The intended purchase must be a residential property valued at AED 5 million or less
Note: If you own property outside Dubai or in leasehold areas, you may still be eligible.
Key Benefits for Buyers
- Early Access to Projects
Buyers gain priority access to newly launched developments by participating developers, giving them the opportunity to secure preferred units before public release.
- Special Pricing
Eligible buyers may receive discounted pricing or exclusive promotions directly from developers on selected units, primarily in off-plan projects.
- Flexible Payment Solutions
Buyers can benefit from interest-free installment plans on Dubai Land Department registration fees when paid via select credit cards. Developers may also offer flexible down payments and construction-linked payment schedules.
- Enhanced Mortgage Offers
Partner banks provide tailored mortgage packages with benefits such as:
- Reduced interest rates
- Waived processing or arrangement fees
- Faster approval timelines
- Exclusive Incentives
Some developers and banks are offering additional benefits—including free property management, DLD fee waivers, and post-handover payment plans—for buyers registered through the programme.
Participating Developers
The initiative includes some of Dubai’s most reputable real estate developers, including:
- Emaar
- Nakheel
- DAMAC
- Meraas
- Dubai Properties
- Ellington
- Danube
- Azizi
- Binghatti
- Majid Al Futtaim
- Wasl
- Palma Holding
- Beyond
Participating Banks
Registered buyers can access financing through several leading institutions, including:
- Emirates NBD
- Dubai Islamic Bank
- Commercial Bank of Dubai
- Mashreq
- Emirates Islamic Bank
- and others
How to Register
- Create a DLD account via the Dubai REST app or DLD website.
- Complete the First-Time Buyer registration form.
- Receive a unique QR code by email upon approval.
- Present this QR code to participating developers and banks to activate your benefits.
Your registration is valid until you successfully purchase and register your first property in Dubai.
Why This Matters
This programme is more than a real estate offer—it’s a strategic move by the Dubai government to:
- Strengthen end-user ownership
- Increase long-term investment in the city
- Reduce barriers to market entry for residents
- Support economic growth under the D33 Agenda
How We Can Help
At WaterWorld Realty, we offer end-to-end support throughout your buying journey:
- Assessing your eligibility
- Guiding your DLD registration
- Recommending suitable projects from approved developers
- Assisting with mortgage pre-approvals through partner banks
- Managing all documentation and registration processes
Take the First Step Toward Ownership
Dubai’s First-Time Home Buyer Programme is an opportunity to own your first home in one of the world’s most dynamic cities—with greater access, affordability, and confidence. Whether you’re buying to live or investing in your future, WaterWorld Realty is here to ensure your journey is informed, smooth, and successful.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
