top of page

STEPHENJAMESMITCHELL

Dubai First-Time Home Buyer (FTHB) Programme: Helping Residents Step Into Ownership

  • Writer: Stephen James Mitchell
    Stephen James Mitchell
  • Jul 2
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jul 3

Dubai's first time home buyer programme launched

Dubai has officially launched the First-Time Home Buyer (FTHB) Programme, an initiative by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Department of Economy and Tourism, aimed at helping UAE residents purchase their first home. With a growing population of renters and a booming real estate market, the Dubai FTHB Programme seeks to bridge the gap and make homeownership more accessible and affordable for both Emiratis and expats.



What is the Dubai First-Time Home Buyer (FTHB) Programme?


The Dubai FTHB Programme is a government-backed initiative designed to support residents buying their first freehold property in Dubai. In partnership with leading real estate developers and local banks, the programme provides:


  • Priority access to new property launches

  • Preferential pricing on select off-plan units

  • Flexible payment plans for DLD registration fees via eligible credit cards

  • Competitive mortgage rates with fast-tracked approvals

  • Exclusive benefits for Emirati nationals

  • Access to financial education and career opportunities in real estate for UAE nationals


It’s a step toward a more inclusive and transparent property market, giving residents the chance to transition from renting to owning—on more favourable terms.



Benefits of the Dubai FTHB Programme


First-time buyers enrolled in the Dubai First-Time Home Buyer Programme can access a wide range of exclusive benefits:


  • ✅ Early access to property launches from top developers

  • ✅ Discounted prices on units reserved for programme participants

  • ✅ Flexible, interest-free installment plans for registration fees via credit card

  • ✅ Tailored mortgage products from participating banks

  • ✅ Extra benefits for Emiratis, including enhanced support and ownership incentives



Eligibility Criteria for the Dubai FTHB Programme


To qualify for the Dubai FTHB Programme, you must meet the following conditions:


  • You must not own any freehold residential property in Dubai

  • You must be a UAE resident (any nationality)

  • You must be 18 years or older

  • The property must be under AED 5 million in value


💡 Own a property in Sharjah or a leasehold area? No problem—you can still qualify.


Completing mortgage application form

Participating Developers and Banks


Partner Developers Include: Emaar, Damac, Nakheel, Binghatti, Ellington, Meeras, Azizi, Majid Al Futtaim, Danube, Wasl, Palma, Dubai Properties, and Beyond.


Partner Banks: Emirates NBD, Emirates Islamic, Dubai Islamic Bank, Commercial Bank of Dubai, and Mashreq.



How to Apply for the Dubai First-Time Home Buyer (FTHB) Programme


  1. Register on the DLD website or via the Dubai REST app

  2. Submit your information and documentation

  3. If approved, receive your First-Time Home Buyer QR code

  4. Use this QR code with partner developers and banks to unlock all eligible benefits


Once registered, developers will notify you about priority access to upcoming project launches.


Frequently Asked Questions


❓ Can I buy a ready property or only off-plan? You can benefit from the Dubai FTHB Programme for both ready and off-plan homes, depending on the offers available from partner developers and banks.


❓ Do I need a mortgage to apply? No, but participating banks offer preferential mortgage terms exclusive to FTHB participants.


❓ Can I buy with someone else? Only if both parties are eligible under the FTHB Programme.


❓ Can I apply again if I sell my home later? No. Once you purchase through the programme, you will no longer be considered a first-time buyer.


❓ What if I don’t find a property I like right away? Your FTHB registration remains valid, and you’ll continue to receive updates on new launches.


❓ Can I rent out or resell a property purchased under the Dubai FTHB Programme Yes. There are no restrictions on renting or reselling a property bought through the Dubai First-Time Home Buyer (FTHB) Programme. Once you have completed the purchase, you are free to lease the property for rental income or sell it at any time, just like any other freehold property in Dubai.


Moving boxes into your first home

Why the Dubai FTHB Programme Matters


According to the Dubai Land Department, the city welcomed over 110,000 new property investors recently. With its mix of preferential prices, reduced upfront costs, and banking support, the Dubai First-Time Home Buyer Programme gives residents a unique opportunity to enter the market at competitive terms—while also contributing to Dubai’s long-term vision of a diversified, owner-driven real estate market.



Let’s Get You Registered as a First-Time Buyer in Dubai


I'm Stephen James Mitchell, a registered and licensed real estate advisor in Dubai with over 18 years of on-the-ground experience helping clients make smart, secure property decisions.


If you're considering homeownership for the first time, I can personally check your eligibility with the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and guide you through the First-Time Home Buyer (FTHB) Programme from start to finish.


📲 Reach out today—no pressure, just clear answers and expert support.



Comments

bottom of page