Buying your first property in the UAE
What does a first-time buyer need to buy property in Dubai?
You need a budget that covers the price plus about 7 to 8% in costs, and, if you are financing, a down payment of at least 20%. You do not need to be a UAE resident to buy in a freehold area. First-timers can also register for the Dubai Land Department's First-Time Home Buyer Programme for extra benefits.
Work out your real budget first
Start with the total cost, not just the sticker price. If you take a mortgage, plan for a down payment of at least 20% of the value on a first home under AED 5,000,000. On top of the price, add the 4% Dubai Land Department transfer fee, roughly 2% agency commission, mortgage arrangement and valuation fees, and the annual service charge once you own. The mortgage calculator shows your monthly repayment and total upfront cash so there are no surprises.
The First-Time Home Buyer Programme
The Dubai Land Department runs a programme for people buying their first home in Dubai, priced under AED 5,000,000, who do not already own freehold residential property there. Benefits can include priority access to newly launched units, preferential prices, and more flexible ways to pay registration fees. You sign up through the Dubai Land Department or the Dubai REST app and receive a buyer code once approved.
New to this? Let a specialist do the legwork
Tell us your budget and what you need from a home. A licensed UAE property partner will shortlist suitable options and walk you through the steps, so you are not learning the whole market on your own.
Help me buy my first propertyGet your financing sorted early
If you are buying with a mortgage, get a pre-approval before you shop. It tells you what you can borrow, sets a firm budget, and makes your offer stronger. A mortgage broker can compare bank rates and explain the real monthly cost, including fees that are easy to miss. Cash buyers can skip this, but should still confirm their total costs up front.
Off-plan or ready property
Ready property means you can move in or rent straight away and see the exact unit. Off-plan is usually cheaper with a staged payment plan, but you wait for handover and take on completion risk. Popular first-timer areas include Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai Hills Estate, Town Square and parts of Dubai South.
If you buy at AED 2M or more
A first home worth AED 2,000,000 or more can also qualify you for the 10-year Golden Visa. If long-term residency is part of your plan, it is worth checking whether stretching to that threshold makes sense for you.
Source: Dubai Land Department — First-Time Home Buyer · last verified Confirm current programme terms and fees with the Dubai Land Department before buying.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much deposit do I need to buy my first property in Dubai?
For a mortgage, expats usually need at least 20% of the price as a down payment on a first home under AED 5 million, plus buying costs of around 7 to 8%. Cash buyers pay the full price plus those costs. Off-plan can start with a smaller down payment on a staged plan.
What is the Dubai First-Time Home Buyer Programme?
It is a Dubai Land Department initiative for people buying their first home in Dubai, valued under AED 5 million, who do not already own freehold residential property there. Benefits can include priority access to new launches, preferential prices and flexible fee payment. You register through the DLD or the Dubai REST app.
What are the total costs of buying a first home?
Beyond the price, budget the 4% Dubai Land Department transfer fee, about 2% agency commission, mortgage arrangement and valuation fees if you finance, and ongoing annual service charges. Together the upfront extras come to roughly 7 to 8% of the price.
Should a first-time buyer choose off-plan or ready property?
Ready property lets you move in or rent immediately and inspect the exact unit. Off-plan is often cheaper with staged payment plans, but you wait for handover. First-timers who want certainty often prefer ready; those prioritising a lower entry cost look at off-plan.
Do I need a real estate agent or mortgage broker?
They help. A licensed agent guides you through the paperwork and negotiation, and a mortgage broker compares bank offers and explains the real monthly cost. Both are common for first purchases, and using licensed professionals protects you.