If you’ve ever stared at rising rental costs in Dubai and thought, “When will it be my turn to own?” — this might be the moment you’ve been waiting for.

The Dubai government has just launched the First-Time Home Buyer (FTHB) program, a bold initiative aimed at helping residents transition from renting to owning.

Whether you’re Emirati or an expat, if you live in the UAE and haven’t purchased a home in Dubai before, you could unlock a range of exclusive benefits.

But what exactly is this new program? Who qualifies? And how does Wasl come into play?

Let’s break it down.

Why Is The First-Time Home Buyer Program A Big Deal?

Rising property prices in Dubai have made it harder for residents to enter the market, especially with developers prioritizing investors over end users during launch events. This program changes that.

As a first-time buyer, you’ll be at the front of the queue, with early access to units from top developers including Wasl, one of the program’s key partners.

That means less competition from brokers and better deals reserved just for you. Nonetheless, as Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan continues to reshape the city into a resident-first metropolis, buying today could mean planting roots in tomorrow’s most livable and valuable communities.

Eligibility

The program is open to UAE residents of any nationality who meet the following conditions:

• You’re 18 years or older
• You live in the UAE
• You’re seeking a property under AED 5 million
• You don’t currently own freehold residential property in Dubai

Own a home elsewhere in the UAE? You’re still eligible. Purchased property in a non-freehold area? That won’t affect your application.

Key Benefits at a Glance

Priority Access:

Be first in line for new launches and inventory from Dubai’s leading developers.

Preferential Pricing:

Enjoy discounted rates on off-plan properties.

Flexible Payment Plans:

Benefit from easier payment structures on both properties and DLD registration fees.

Reduced Mortgage Rates:

Get tailored loans through partner banks with better terms and quicker approvals.

Explore our guide to hassle-free home loan processes to learn how financing works in Dubai.

How To Apply For Dubai First Home Initiative?

Register Online

Head to the Dubai REST app or the Dubai Land Department website. If you’re eligible, you’ll receive a QR code that grants you access to all the benefits.

Explore Properties

Participating developers, including Wasl, Emaar, Nakheel, Binghatti, DAMAC, and more, will contact you directly when priority launches open.

Get Financing

Don’t have a mortgage yet? No problem. Registered banks like Emirates NBD, Dubai Islamic Bank, and Mashreq are offering tailored mortgage solutions just for first-time buyers, with faster approval and better rates.

There are no fees to apply, and if you're not eligible right away, you can reapply later once your circumstances change.

Where Can You Buy?

There are no zone restrictions. But if you’re looking for value, consider emerging communities like:

• Dubai Land Residential Complex (DLRC)
• Liwan
• Silicon Oasis
• Al Warsan
• Marjan

These areas already offer affordable options,  and demand is expected to grow as the program rolls out.

Wasl: A Partner You Can Trust

While the FTHB program is a government-led initiative, Wasl is proud to be one of the participating developers helping bring it to life.

As a long-standing advocate for making Dubai living more accessible and convenient, Wasl is committed to offering:

• High-quality developments in prime locations
• Inventory options aligned with FTHB requirements
• Customer-first support throughout your home-buying journey

From affordable apartments in family-friendly areas to well-connected urban communities, Wasl is ready to welcome the next generation of homeowners.

Final Thoughts: Your Time Is Now

With rising rents, better mortgage rates, and exclusive deals through the FTHB program, there’s never been a better time to invest. This isn’t just about ownership, it’s about building long-term equity, financial stability, and peace of mind.

And it’s all part of a bigger vision.

The FTHB programme supports the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, a bold move to increase residential supply in key locations, enable greater affordability, and encourage long-term residency. It’s not just about buying a home, it’s about being part of Dubai’s future.

Want to know more about why investing in Dubai property pays off? Unlock 5 key benefits of investing in Dubai.

FAQs 

Is the program only for off-plan properties?

Not at all. While many of the incentives, like preferential pricing and priority access, are geared toward off-plan projects, the program for new home buyers also includes ready-to-move-in homes. First-time buyers can still benefit from tailored mortgage rates and faster approvals when purchasing completed units through participating banks.

How will developers reach out to eligible first-time home buyers in the program?

Once you're registered and verified by the Dubai Land Department, you’ll receive a unique First-Time Home Buyer QR code. Participating developers, including Wasl and others, will contact you directly ahead of their launches, offering early access to inventory specifically reserved for those in the first-time home ownership program.

Can I participate if I already own property in another Emirate?

Yes, you can. The program is open to all UAE residents who do not currently own any freehold residential property in Dubai. So if you own a home in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or another emirate, or even in a non-freehold area of Dubai, you’re still eligible to apply.