How Holo Can Help You Make the Most of Dubai’s First-Time Buyer Program

Over the last few months, you may have heard about Dubai's First-Time Buyer initiative. It's an exciting scheme designed to make property ownership easier for residents and citizens taking their very first step onto the property ladder.

At Holo, we welcome any program that supports buyers in Dubai - and this one has already created a huge buzz. Since the announcement, our team has seen a wave of interest from prospective buyers who are eager to understand how it works and how they can take advantage of it.

Now, we're in a strong position to guide you through the process and help you benefit from this unique opportunity. 

What Is the First-Time Home Buyer Program?

The FTHB program is a joint initiative launched by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) in July 2025.

The program's goal is simple:

• Help more people, both UAE nationals and expats, become homeowners in Dubai.
• Offer financial perks that make the process smoother and more affordable.
• Strengthen the long-term real estate market by encouraging residency and stability.

In short, it's a way for first-time buyers to get exclusive opportunities that regular buyers don't have.

What We Know So Far

Like any new initiative, some details are still unfolding. At the moment, we know:

• The program is available to first-time buyers in Dubai who meet the eligibility criteria.
• Developers and UAE lenders are actively preparing special offers and financing solutions for registered buyers.
• Registered buyers will receive a QR code that unlocks exclusive benefits, from discounted prices to better mortgage terms.

The good news? Things are moving quickly, and you don't need to wait to start preparing.

Eligibility: Who Can Apply?

Not everyone can qualify, but the requirements are surprisingly straightforward. To join the scheme, you need to:

• Be a UAE resident (Emirati or expatriate).
• Be 18 years or older.
• Not own any freehold residential property in Dubai (owning in other Emirates or outside Dubai is fine).
• Choose a property worth under AED 5 million.

If that's you, you're eligible to register and enjoy the benefits.

Why Pre-Approval Is a Must

One of the smartest steps you can take as a first-time buyer is to secure a mortgage pre-approval before you even start your property search.

Here's why we recommend it at Holo:

• You'll know exactly how much the bank is willing to lend.
• Sellers will take your offers seriously because you've already started the financial process.
• It gives you the confidence to look at properties within your true budget.

Pre-approval isn't just paperwork - it's your ticket to getting ahead of other buyers in a competitive market.

Benefits of the First-Time Home Buyer Program

Here's where it gets interesting. The program comes with several perks designed to ease the financial burden and give buyers confidence:

1. Priority Access to New Projects

Top developers in Dubai like Emaar, Nakheel, DAMAC, Meraas, Wasl, and others are giving FTHB participants first pick of new launches. That means you can secure units before they hit the wider market.

2. Special Discounts and Pricing

Some developers have already announced exclusive discounts. For example, Binghatti has been offering up to 5% off selected projects.

3. Flexible Payment Plans

Off-plan properties often come with installment plans, but under the scheme, these are expected to be even more flexible, helping you spread the cost over time without stretching your budget.

4. Better Mortgage Packages

Participating banks such as Emirates NBD, Mashreq, Dubai Islamic Bank, CBD, and Emirates Islamic are offering:

• Preferential mortgage rates
• Lower or waived processing fees
• Faster approvals

5. DLD Fee Support

In some cases, buyers may benefit from waived or refunded parts of the 4% DLD registration fee - a big saving when buying a property worth a few million dirhams.

How Holo Can Help First-Time Buyers

Buying your first property is a big moment. With Holo by your side, you don't just get the benefits of the government's First-Time Buyer Program - you also get best-in-class mortgage advice and access to exclusive perks.

Here's what we do for you:

• Step-by-step guidance on registering for the scheme and accessing your QR code.
• Personalized mortgage support: we compare offers across banks so you don't have to.
• Fast pre-approval to strengthen your buying position.
• Free property valuation worth up to AED 3,100 (limited lenders only) when you secure your mortgage with Holo as a registered first-time buyer.
• End-to-end support: from registering to financing to finalizing your purchase.

In other words, we simplify the process so you can focus on finding your dream home.

Why Apply Through Holo?

Choosing the right partner matters. With Holo, you're not just applying for a mortgage - you're unlocking a smoother, more confident path to homeownership.

• We work directly with UAE lenders who are already setting up offers for first-time buyers.
• Our platform makes it easy to apply online for your mortgage.
• You get transparent advice, no hidden fees, and access to the best mortgage products in the market.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

If you're thinking about buying your first home in Dubai, now is the time to act. The First-Time Buyer Program is set to open up incredible opportunities - and with Holo guiding you, you won't miss a step.

Apply now and let us help you take advantage of the program while securing the best mortgage for your needs.

Frequently asked question about the program: 

Can non-Emiratis apply?

Yes. The program is open to all UAE residents who meet the criteria.

Do I need to pay a fee to register?

No, there are no extra fees to join.

What if I already own property outside Dubai?

You're still eligible as long as you don't own freehold property in Dubai.

Are only off-plan properties included?

No, both ready and off-plan properties may qualify, though the best benefits are tied to off-plan launches.

Can I use the scheme more than once?

No. Once you've bought your first home, your QR code expires.