Dubai Launches First-Time Buyer Scheme to Boost Youth Homeownership

16 Sep 2025 CW Team

The Dubai Land Department (DLD) has introduced a first-time buyer initiative designed to spur homeownership among UAE residents and attract younger generations to real estate.

The scheme offers preferential pricing from developers, flexible mortgage options from leading banks, and instalment-based relief on DLD registration fees for properties priced under AED 5 million. Eligible applicants must be UAE residents aged 18 and above who have not previously owned property in Dubai.

Badar Rashid Alblooshi, Chairman of Arabian Gulf Properties, called the move a turning point: “By removing financial and procedural barriers, Dubai is making it easier for first-time buyers to see property not as a distant dream, but as a practical step toward financial security and rootedness.”

Dubai’s programme aligns with best practices seen globally, including tax exemptions, subsidies, and shared equity schemes in countries such as Canada, Finland, the Netherlands, Australia, Ireland, and the United States. It also supports the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and Real Estate Strategy 2033 by strengthening end-user demand and fostering long-term market stability.

Infrastructure Transport

27 Oct 2025

MMRC Plans CityFL Feeder Network for Mumbai Metro Line-3

The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) is planning to introduce a dedicated feeder network, called CityFL (City First and Last), for the upcoming Metro Line-3. The initiative aims to provide seamless last-mile connectivity from Metro stations to surrounding neighbourhoods and commercial hubs.The feeder system will include electric buses, e-autos, and shared mobility options integrated with Metro schedules to ensure smoother passenger transfers. MMRC officials stated that the plan is part of a broader strategy to enhance ridership and reduce reliance on private vehicles.Metro Line-3, the city..

Adani Group Wins Rs 16.44 Bn Pune Metro Contract

The Adani Group has secured Rs 16.44 billion contract for constructing the 5.4 km underground section of Pune Metro’s Swargate–Katraj line. The project, awarded by MahaMetro, involves twin tunnels and three underground stations to improve urban connectivity and ease traffic congestion in southern Pune.Officials stated that the Adani Group will undertake design, civil works, and allied infrastructure development for the stretch, which forms part of Pune Metro’s Phase II expansion.Once completed, the corridor will significantly enhance mobility between central and southern parts of the cit..

Gurgaon Metro Phase-2 May Go Underground, Raising Costs

The proposed Phase-2 of the Gurgaon Metro project may shift from an elevated to an underground alignment, a move that could nearly double its overall cost and delay completion. Officials are considering the redesign to reduce land acquisition challenges and minimise disruption to densely populated areas.Sources indicate that the project’s cost could rise significantly due to tunnelling, safety systems, and advanced construction requirements associated with underground corridors.The Haryana Mass Rapid Transport Corporation is currently assessing revised design proposals and financial implicat..