Dubai's First-Time Home Buyer (FTHB) Programme has helped more than 2,000 residents purchase their first homes within just six months of its launch, generating over Dh3.25 billion in residential property sales, according to the Dubai Land Department (DLD). The milestone underscores the programme's rapid impact on homeownership rates and market confidence across the emirate.
A Joint Initiative to Expand Homeownership
Launched in July 2025, the initiative was jointly developed by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Dubai Land Department. It brings together government entities, property developers, and financial institutions to lower the barriers that traditionally keep residents from entering the property market.
Through the scheme, first-time buyers receive: - Priority access to selected residential projects - Preferential pricing from participating developers - Tailored mortgage solutions from approved banks
All five participating banks have reported strong demand for customised mortgage products, reinforcing the programme's role in broadening practical access to homeownership for residents of all nationalities and income levels.
Strong Uptake and Growing Demand
Since launch, more than 41,000 residents have registered for the Dubai first-time home buyer programme. Of those who have completed purchases, 49% are long-term residents who have lived in Dubai for over five years without previously owning property — highlighting the programme's success in helping established community members put down permanent roots.
Aligned with Dubai's Long-Term Economic Vision
The First-Time Home Buyer Programme supports several key strategic frameworks: - Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which targets doubling the emirate's economy by 2033 - Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033, focused on sustainable market growth - UAE's Year of Community, promoting social cohesion and economic resilience
By encouraging long-term residency and ownership, the initiative contributes to talent retention and market stability.
Leadership Views on Market Impact
Hadi Badri, CEO of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation, said the programme "reflects Dubai's collaborative approach between government and the private sector," noting it transforms homeownership into an achievable reality for thousands of residents. He emphasised that the initiative strengthens investor confidence while accelerating the real estate sector's contribution to economic growth under the D33 agenda.
Majid Al Marri, CEO of the Real Estate Registration Sector at DLD, described the programme as "a key driver in sustaining the momentum of Dubai's real estate market," which recorded Dh917 billion in total transactions in 2025.
Real Stories from First-Time Buyers
Beneficiaries say the programme simplified what once felt like an unattainable goal.
Fatma Almarri, a first-time buyer, said the initiative made "ownership achievable even on a single income," giving her greater financial confidence.
Another buyer, Jade Lee, described homeownership as "a life-changing milestone," offering long-term stability that her family previously lacked.
A More Inclusive Property Market
As additional developers and partners join the programme, a wider range of properties and price points is expected to become available. Officials say the initiative is helping shape a "more inclusive and future-ready real estate market," ensuring that homeownership becomes a realistic goal for more residents.
By deepening end-user demand and supporting long-term settlement, Dubai's First-Time Home Buyer Programme is reinforcing the emirate's position as a global city built for sustainable living and growth.
