Dubai’s First-Time Home Buyer Program (FTHB) has had a significant impact, enabling over 2,000 residents to purchase their first homes within just six months, generating AED 3.25 billion ($885 million) in sales. Launched in July 2025, the program was developed by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Dubai Land Department (DLD) to make homeownership more accessible to residents of all nationalities and income levels.
The FTHB program brings together key stakeholders, including government entities, developers, and financial institutions, offering priority access to new projects, tailored mortgage solutions, and preferential pricing for first-time buyers. It aligns with Dubai’s broader economic goals, particularly the D33 economic agenda, which aims to double the size of Dubai’s economy by 2033, while also contributing to the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033.
The success of the program is evident, with 41,000 residents already registered. Notably, 49% of the homes purchased were by long-term residents of over five years, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness in helping those who had not previously owned property in Dubai.
The initiative has also seen strong demand for tailored mortgage solutions through participating banks, reinforcing its role in making homeownership more practical for residents. Hadi Badri, CEO of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation, emphasized the program’s role in fostering social cohesion and strengthening Dubai’s real estate sector.
For first-time buyers like Fatma Almarri, the program has made homeownership achievable despite financial constraints. Jade Lee, another beneficiary, shared how the program provided the stability and foundation she needed after growing up in a family where homeownership was out of reach.
As more developers and partners join, the FTHB program is expected to continue expanding property choices, shaping a more inclusive market and strengthening Dubai’s long-term competitiveness in the real estate sector. This initiative is proving to be a vital tool for aspiring homeowners, while also contributing to the stability and growth of the broader Dubai economy.
