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Arabian Business
6 days ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
Dubai real estate: What is the first-time home buyer initiative? Everything you need to know
Dubai residents dreaming of home-ownership now have a clear path to buying their first property through a government-backed programme. The First-Time Home Buyer Programme, launched on July 2 by Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), offers priority access of properties up to AED 5 million to Emiratis and expats in the region. Dubai launches landmark initiative further enabling first-time homeownership offering aspiring Emirati and expatriate homeowners priority access to new launches, preferential prices, and tailored mortgage solutions. The joint initiative by Dubai Land Department and the Dubai… — Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) July 2, 2025 This includes preferential pricing, and flexible payment plans through partnerships with 13 major developers and five banks. 'The initiative is poised to shift buyer dynamics in the Dubai property market significantly. Traditionally dominated by investors, the market will now welcome a stronger presence of end-users-particularly long-term residents seeking to plant roots in the city. This shift will foster a more balanced ecosystem, where emotional connection, lifestyle needs, and community value become key purchasing drivers,' Joseph Thomas, Co-Founder of Ellington Properties told Arabian Business. So, who can apply for the first-time home buyer initiative in Dubai? The programme targets UAE nationals and expatriates who meet specific criteria: UAE residents of any nationality aged 18 or older Must not currently own freehold residential property in Dubai Seeking properties valued at AED 5 million or less Limited to single use – buyers cannot participate again after purchasing 'Even residents from other Emirates who couldn't plan to buy in Dubai earlier can now consider it seriously. It builds long-term loyalty and local ownership,' Meenakshi Tejwani, Founder & CEO of Alpha Mortgage explained, adding that this initiative 'will open the market to more genuine end-users.' 'First-time buyers who were struggling to arrange the down payment can now enter the market, which will increase demand for affordable housing and bring more balance between investors and residents,' she added. However, customers must provide legal documentation before purchasing. According to Vishal Tinani, Corporate Lawyer & Regulatory Affairs Specialist, the registration process is straightforward. 'First-time buyers must be ready to submit all required documentation, including proof of their first-time buyer status, valid Emirates ID (or passport for non-residents), and a signed sale and purchase agreement for the chosen property,' Tinani explained. Check eligibility through the Dubai Land Department's criteria Register via the Dubai REST app or Dubai Land Department website Submit documentation including Emirates ID and required details Receive verification and unique QR code for programme access Select property from participating developers' exclusive listings 'Additional documents, such as proof of income or a mortgage pre-approval letter, will typically be necessary if financing is required. The full application and verification process is handled digitally via the Dubai Land Department's official channels. Once approved, buyers can benefit from special pricing arrangements, flexible payment plans, and competitive mortgage products from participating banks,' he explained. 'Upon completion and payment, the buyer receives full ownership and the title deed, an important milestone in long-term residency,' Thomas added. What Dubai properties are available? The AED 5 million cap opens access to a wide range of properties across Dubai, both Thomas and Tejwani said: 1- to 4-bedroom apartments in central Dubai Villas and townhouses in outer areas like Dubailand, Mirdif, or JVC Mid-range off-plan properties from major developers 'These options are well-suited for small families and working professionals looking to step into home-ownership,' Tejwani said, adding that flexible payment plans 'helps the most,' in such cases, as many residents cannot pay a big amounts upfront despite having a stable income stream. 'Most residents are eligible for 80 per cent mortgage but struggle to arrange the 20 per cent down payment or cover DLD fees. This programme helps solve that by giving more flexible options, especially for those buying for the first time,' she said, adding 'spreading out the payments makes home ownership more realistic.' What are the benefits of being a first-time home buyer in Dubai? According to Ellington Properties' Thomas, there are both pros and cons of the initiative focusing on off-plan properties with 80/20 payment plans. 'Off-plan properties generally offer lower entry prices compared to ready units, allowing buyers to secure homes in promising developments early. Buyers can select from a wider variety of units and locations since projects are in earlier sales phases,' he said. However, the cons include that the 80/20 structure requires buyers to pay 80 per cent during construction, which can be 'financially demanding, especially for first-time buyers without substantial savings or dual incomes.' 'Unlike post-handover plans that spread payments over time after moving in, this model places more financial weight upfront, potentially limiting accessibility despite the programme's inclusive intent,' he said. Ellington Properties, which is one of the 13 major developers under this initiative, offers flexible payment plans that align with the needs of today's customers, through a structured 60/40 plan in place. 'We understand that every buyer's financial journey is different. That's why, as an organisation, we remain flexible and open to tailoring payment schedules to suit individual needs, including options like a 50/50 payment plan (50 per cent during construction and 50 per cent at handover), which offers a balanced structure for many first-time buyers. This flexibility allows buyers to move forward confidently, knowing that their investment journey is supported with understanding and adaptability,' Thomas said, listing the following benefits for the 60/40 payment plan: 60/40 Payment Plan: 30 per cent is paid in the first 12 months (including the down payment) 20 per cent is paid until the project reaches 50 per cent construction 10 per cent until handover And the final 40 per cent is deferred to handover In addition, Ellington offers: Discounted property prices on selected units as part of our commitment to the programme The option to pay the 4 per cent DLD fee in monthly instalments over 8 months (0.5 per cent per month) Tailored support throughout the process to ensure a smooth and transparent experience. 'These initiatives reflect our continued focus on helping first-time buyers secure not just a property, but a well-designed, thoughtfully crafted home that supports their lifestyle and long-term goals,' he said. The other 12 major developers include: Azizi Developments Beyond Developments Binghatti Holding DAMAC Properties Danube Properties Dubai Properties Emaar Properties Majid Al Futtaim Group Meraas Nakheel Palma Holding Wasl 'Having 13 top-tier developers participate lends credibility and scale to the initiative. It ensures that buyers have quality options across different neighborhoods and architectural styles. For developers, the challenge lies in balancing price accessibility with design, construction quality, and timelines,' Thomas said. In addition, the involvement of banks with favourable mortgage terms, is also a key benefit. 'Reduced down payments, competitive rates, and extended tenures, will open the door for a larger group of buyers who previously couldn't qualify for home financing,' he said, adding that this also helps in improving financial planning. 'For buyers committing to off-plan properties, knowing that financing is pre-arranged and affordable adds confidence and long-term stability to the process,' he said. So, which are the banks involved? Five banks offer tailored mortgage products: Commercial Bank of Dubai Dubai Islamic Bank Emirates NBD Emirates Islamic Mashreq Bank 'These improved mortgage deals will give buyers better interest rates, lower fees, and possibly easier approvals. It reduces the financial burden and helps buyers focus more on the property they want, rather than worrying about financing,' Tejwani said. It is also important to know that there are other legal requirements and obligations that first-time home buyers must adhere to, according to Tinani. Participants in the program are required to fully adhere to all terms and conditions established by the Dubai Land Department and any participating financial institutions. This includes timely payment of registration fees, adherence to mortgage repayment schedules, and strict compliance with Dubai's property ownership regulations,' he said. 'Notably, the program is limited to a single use; buyers who purchase a property through this scheme will not be eligible to participate again in the future. Breaches of program rules, such as submitting false information or failing to meet contractual obligations, can lead to loss of benefits, financial penalties, or legal action. Accordingly, it is strongly recommended that buyers carefully review all documentation and consider legalities to ensure their rights and interests are protected throughout the transaction,' Tinani added. 'Now' ideal time to invest in first-time Dubai property buying The programme addresses a gap in Dubai's property market where residents struggled to compete with cash-rich foreign investors, experts said. 'This programme is a strong move by the government to support real residents – not just investors. It shows trust in the expat population and creates a more balanced and sustainable property market. It's also a great opportunity for those who have been dreaming of owning their first home in Dubai,' Tejwani said. The timing of the launch during Dubai's strong property market performance is considered ideal by industry experts. According to Ellington's Thomas, 'now is the ideal moment.' 'The property market is thriving, but so is the city's commitment to inclusive growth. Launching this initiative at a high point sends a message that the market is not just for elite investors – it's for everyone who contributes to Dubai's success story,' he said. 'Long-term, we expect this to expand the end-user base, stabilise rental demand, and support urban planning strategies centered on ownership, mobility, and community,' he concluded.
Zawya
18-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Ellington Properties advances digital innovation in real estate, supports Dubai's property tokenization initiative
Fractional ownership starts from AED 2,000, backed by official certification and powered by blockchain technology The unit sold out within one minute of launch, reflecting strong market appetite for fractional ownership This collaboration aligns with national efforts to redefine property ownership models and expand opportunities for a new generation of tech-savvy investors Dubai, UAE – Ellington Properties, Dubai's leading design-led real estate developer, has announced its support for the emirate's second tokenized property initiative, reinforcing its commitment to innovative real estate solutions. As part of this milestone project, Ellington has contributed a residential unit at Kensington Waters, a premium development located in Mohammed Bin Rashid City, enabling fractional ownership through secure, blockchain-based digital tokenization. The initiative marks a significant step forward in democratizing real estate investment. With investment entry points starting from AED 2,000, tokenized shares of the unit at the Kensington Waters offer broader, more inclusive access to Dubai's thriving property market. Moreover, each share is backed by official certification and powered by blockchain technology, ensuring transparency and security. Joseph Thomas, Co-Founder of Ellington Properties, said: Supporting this transformative national initiative reflects our commitment to innovation and to making design-led real estate more accessible. We believe real estate tokenization is a major leap forward in reshaping how people interact with and invest in property, and we are proud to be among the first developers in Dubai to embrace it.' This collaboration not only reinforces Ellington's forward-thinking approach but also supports Dubai's broader vision of solidifying its position as a leading hub for the world's most thriving digital economy. By supporting the integration of blockchain technology with real estate, Ellington Properties aims to redefine property ownership models and expand opportunities for a new generation of tech-savvy investors. The selected property, Kensington Waters, exemplifies Ellington's commitment to thoughtful design and modern living. Recently handed over, the development is inspired by the natural elements of water, echoing wellness, health, and happiness, offering a haven of beauty in the heart of Mohammed Bin Rashid City. About Ellington Properties Ellington Properties is Dubai's leading design-led real estate developer, dedicated to crafting beautiful properties and communities for high-quality lifestyles. Renowned for its customer-centric approach, Ellington Properties develops residences characterized by incredible artistry and impeccable architecture. The company's diverse portfolio includes communities across Dubai, such as Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, Dubai Hills, Palm Jumeirah, Mohammed Bin Rashid City (MBR City), and Dubai Islands, among others, as well as in Ras Al Khaimah, including Al Marjan Islands and Hayat Island. Ellington Properties combines thoughtful design, art, and lifestyle curation to create sanctuaries of personalized living experiences. For more information, visit For all media inquiries contact: Kashish Punjabi | Amjad Mkayed Ruder Finn Atteline Email: ellington@
Mid East Info
18-06-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Ellington Properties advances digital innovation in real estate, supports Dubai's property tokenization initiative
A residential unit at Kensington Waters selected as Dubai's second tokenized property, supporting broader access to real estate investment Fractional ownership starts from AED 2,000, backed by official certification and powered by blockchain technology The u nit sold out within one minute of launch, reflecting strong market appetite for fractional ownership This collaboration aligns with national efforts to redefine property ownership models and expand opportunities for a new generation of tech-savvy investors Dubai, UAE – June 18, 2025 – Ellington Properties, Dubai's leading design-led real estate developer, has announced its support for the emirate's second tokenized property initiative, reinforcing its commitment to innovative real estate solutions. As part of this milestone project, Ellington has contributed a residential unit at Kensington Waters, a premium development located in Mohammed Bin Rashid City, enabling fractional ownership through secure, blockchain-based digital tokenization. The initiative marks a significant step forward in democratizing real estate investment. With investment entry points starting from AED 2,000, tokenized shares of the unit at the Kensington Waters offer broader, more inclusive access to Dubai's thriving property market. Moreover, each share is backed by official certification and powered by blockchain technology, ensuring transparency and security. Joseph Thomas, Co-Founder of Ellington Properties, said: Supporting this transformative national initiative reflects our commitment to innovation and to making design-led real estate more accessible. We believe real estate tokenization is a major leap forward in reshaping how people interact with and invest in property, and we are proud to be among the first developers in Dubai to embrace it.' This collaboration not only reinforces Ellington's forward-thinking approach but also supports Dubai's broader vision of solidifying its position as a leading hub for the world's most thriving digital economy. By supporting the integration of blockchain technology with real estate, Ellington Properties aims to redefine property ownership models and expand opportunities for a new generation of tech-savvy investors. The selected property, Kensington Waters, exemplifies Ellington's commitment to thoughtful design and modern living. Recently handed over, the development is inspired by the natural elements of water, echoing wellness, health, and happiness, offering a haven of beauty in the heart of Mohammed Bin Rashid City. About Ellington Properties Ellington Properties is Dubai's leading design-led real estate developer, dedicated to crafting beautiful properties and communities for high-quality lifestyles. Renowned for its customer-centric approach, Ellington Properties develops residences characterized by incredible artistry and impeccable architecture. The company's diverse portfolio includes communities across Dubai, such as Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, Dubai Hills, Palm Jumeirah, Mohammed Bin Rashid City (MBR City), and Dubai Islands, among others, as well as in Ras Al Khaimah, including Al Marjan Islands and Hayat Island. Ellington Properties combines thoughtful design, art, and lifestyle curation to create sanctuaries of personalized living experiences. For more information, visit For all media inquiries contact: Kashish Punjabi | Amjad Mkayed Ruder Finn Atteline Phone: +971 56 708 4094 | +971 50 235 1814 Email: ellington@
Time of India
05-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
ETMarkets Smart Talk - RBI may cut rates by 50 bps in 2025 as growth needs support, says Dr. Joseph Thomas of Emkay Wealth
In this edition of ETMarkets Smart Talk, Dr. Joseph Thomas , Head of Research at Emkay Wealth Management, shares his insights on the evolving macroeconomic landscape and what it means for investors. He highlights the rising possibility of a 50 basis points rate cut by the RBI in 2025, as inflation remains under control and the need to support growth becomes more pressing. From his views on global volatility triggered by tariff tensions and US bond yields, to India's improving earnings landscape and growing IPO activity, Dr. Thomas outlines where opportunities lie for long-term investors and which sectors deserve close attention now. Edited Excerpts – Q) What is fuelling volatility on D-Street – tariff war fears still playing the spoilsport? A) We have witnessed unusually high levels of volatility in the last three to four months. The sell off by FIIs, as it gradually moderated, the Trump tariffs made the entry creating unprecedented uncertainties in global trade and the sustainability of the economic momentum that was picking up in Europe and elsewhere in the world. From a domestic perspective, the Indo-Pak conflict also contributed to some amount of volatility though it was short-lived. The actual impact on the secular uptrend of the markets is concerned, these events would have had very little enduring impact on the domestic economy and markets. The US seems to be in a conciliatory mode as of now with negotiations in progress with several countries. As far as India is concerned the bilateral trade agreement with the US is at an advanced stage of negotiations and could be finalized soon. However, the Russia-Ukraine conflict is still alive, and it is difficult to see how it is going to progress in the coming days. Therefore, we may see volatility continuing to envelop the markets but the intensity is likely to moderate substantially. Q) What does rise in US Bond Yields mean for Indian markets? Historically, a rise in bond yields could trigger a rotation out of equities into bonds. Additionally, rising US yields can lead to capital outflows from emerging markets as investors seek safer returns in US bonds. How are you reading into this? A) US bond yields do not mean anything much for Indian markets as things stand at this juncture. The US bond yields moved up in response to two factors – the downgrade by Moody's, and the pause on rate cuts by the Fed . The US rates are bound to come down over the next three to six months. Over the next one year or so, the Fed Funds Rate could come down by another 200 basis points with the rate of economic growth showing a deceleration, and a further slowdown in growth in the coming quarters, and with inflation too very close to the target rate. Considerations of growth will compel the Fed to cut rates further. With further fall in US interest rates, there is likely a flow of funds into emerging markets, and this requires rate action by the Fed. Asset rotation is a possibility only where rates have peaked or near-peak. The conditions in the US or India is still an evolving one with rates having come down the peaks and set to move still lower. With far higher government expenditure on the anvil, any frenzied buying in the US treasuries can be ruled out especially with a lower rating by another agency, and far more supplies expected at the primary in the coming months. Q) What do you make of the March quarter results from India Inc.? A) The Q4- FY25 results are more or less in line with expectations. Broadly, going by BSE-500 results, the PAT growth was, on a y-o-y basis, to the tune of 8.70%. The sectors which displayed improvements sequentially are Healthcare , Materials and industrials, and those who did not measure up included IT and Consumer Discretionary. Strong underlying cash flows, and significant step up in EBITDA over the last couple of years for BSE 500 companies marks a fundamental robustness. With valuations at reasonable levels, and likelihood of much lower cost of funds, and liquidity sustaining over a longer period of time, the indexes may pick up further momentum, with the only threat being the acceleration of the tariff related uncertainties. Q) FOMC minutes indicated that further rate cuts could be data dependent. But what about rate cuts back home? How do you see rates moving? A) As I mentioned earlier, there will be more rate cuts in the US as we progress further in this year. With the last CPI number at 2.30 %, inflation is close to the Fed's target rate. The need to prop up growth through lower rates would emerge sooner than later. Back home the RBI has so far effected two rate cuts which has taken the Repo rate to 6.00 %. The probability of rate cuts is very high as the cost of funds needs to be brought down to support economic growth. Inflation is under control, and the threats from food or fuel component is very limited or nil. Mainly, the crude prices are very low and the OPEX+ expansion of output and supply to the tune of 410,000 barrels per day would act as a dampener on prices. On a very conservative assessment the rate cuts from the RBI could be at least 50 basis points for the rest of the year. The market yields are already pricing-in this to a large extent. The fall in rates and the liquidity which is aplenty in the interbank market helps the transmission of rates deeper into the credit realm. The GOI 10 Year benchmark has already touched 6.20 %, and the fall from these levels would be more gradualistic, while the short-term rates may display relatively greater intensity of fall. The liquidity and interest rate scenario supports both higher equity and debt markets. Q) We are seeing some activity in the IPO markets. What do you make of the companies that are getting listed – any interesting names? What about SME space, which has gathered more interest so far in 2025 as compared to mainboard IPOs? Do you see froth building in this space or an opportunity for long-term investors? A) The IPO market for both mainboard and the SME space saw good number of new issues during last calendar year. In the year 2024, India reached the number one position internationally in IPO volumes, and in India twice as many IPOs as the US, and almost two-and-a-half times as many as Europe, were listed. More or less the same pace is seen early on in this year too. The number of SME issues was larger than the number of the mainboard issues. These issues come up when the outlook for the markets is positive, when the market liquidity is smooth, and also the perception on gains post the listing is quite substantial. At this juncture conditions are conducive to a revival of interest in IPOs in both the segments. The pre-IPO activity, mainly in the popular unlisted space is also gradually picking up steam. What has been supporting the IPOs is a very strong interest by retail investor in this space, apart from interest from overseas investors. Also, IPOs almost always create an impression of something that is cheaper than the market which is reflected in the oversubscription in majority of the issues. Q) Where do you find value in this market for long-term investors? A) The Mid and Small Caps segment (SMIDs)offers better value to the portfolio on a longer-term basis. This is because of two reasons. After the corrective downward movements seen in the last three to four months, the valuations are now at reasonable levels. The segment offers better growth and therefore, better price performance. Yat another factor to reckon with is that the market capitalization of the SMIDs has expanded over the last couple of years, and this makes it a favoured destination for overseas investors. This is something that should not be missed from a long-term perspective. Apart from these two themes which Emkay Wealth has been highlighting is the Infra and PSU equity. There has been significant correction in these two segments, and they offer immense amount of value for investors as their performance is linked to developmental efforts and government policies and not that much correlated to economic cycles. The other sectors which Emkay is positive on are consumer discretionary, healthcare, technology, and utilities. Q) What is your call on the defence space? Many stocks witnessed a double-digit jump after geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan earlier this month. A) The defence space looks lucrative against the background of the military operations which actually highlighted the strategic shift in the modes, mechanism and techniques of warfare. The use of drones unmanned aerial vehicles, and the use of satellite technology to hit targets with precision has lent great credibility to a host of defence manufacturing entities and their capabilities which have now been established. However, it may be mentioned here that the listed entities may be far and few, but the number of entities who are in the unlisted space and who would be coming up in the near future would be much, much, higher than what we have in the listed space. It may be worthwhile looking at private equity funds focussed on early or mid-stage startups which are available in the marketplace. At a portfolio level, one should be careful about avoiding any kind of overexposure to the sector.
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Moorehall Securities: Europe's Leading Force in Fixed-Income Wealth Solutions
DUBLIN, IE / / May 22, 2025 / Established in the 1970s in Ireland, Moorehall Securities has transformed from a boutique advisory firm into one of Europe's foremost independent asset management and investment introduction firms. Managing over €200 million in assets and employing a dedicated team of more than 300 financial professionals, Moorehall operates from strategically located offices in Dublin, Zurich, Frankfurt, Madrid, and Luxembourg. The firm has earned a distinguished reputation for providing sophisticated investors with access to exclusive fixed-income opportunities, setting a benchmark for excellence in wealth management. Moorehall Securities specializes in delivering tailored financial solutions, enabling thousands of clients across Europe to achieve financial independence through government-backed, high-yield fixed-income products. These offerings, traditionally reserved for institutional investors, include sovereign bonds, institutional-grade notes, and protected income-generating vehicles. By cultivating exclusive partnerships with leading European banking institutions, Moorehall facilitates access for pre-qualified retail investors to these elite investment opportunities, ensuring both security and performance. Joseph Thomas, Director of Fixed Income at Moorehall, emphasizes the firm's unique value proposition: "Our mission is to bridge the divide between private clients and institutional-grade investment opportunities. In an era of volatile markets and economic uncertainty, clients seek both competitive yields and unwavering security. Moorehall excels in delivering solutions that prioritize transparency, regulatory compliance, and capital preservation." This client-centric approach has garnered Moorehall numerous industry accolades and a reputation as a trusted partner for investors seeking stable passive income streams, wealth preservation, and diversification beyond conventional retail banking products. The firm's commitment to excellence is reflected in its meticulous due diligence processes and its ability to curate investment opportunities that align with clients' long-term financial objectives. Moorehall's success is driven by its exceptional leadership and deep industry expertise. Claude Alcan, Managing Director, brings over three decades of experience from global financial institutions such as Deutsche Bank, UBS, and Credit Suisse. "At Moorehall, we blend institutional-grade investment intelligence with personalized, high-touch service," Alcan explains. "Our approach is not transactional; we forge enduring partnerships with our clients, guiding them toward informed and confident investment decisions." The firm's growth trajectory reflects its strategic vision, marked by calculated expansion into new markets, selective recruitment of top-tier talent, and an unwavering commitment to discretion and integrity. With a robust pan-European presence, Moorehall continues to innovate, catering to individuals, families, and professional clients who demand superior financial solutions tailored to their unique needs. About Moorehall Securities Founded in the 1970s, Moorehall Securities is a leading independent asset manager and investment introduction firm specializing in fixed-income solutions that offer capital protection and enhanced yields. Retained by premier European banks, Moorehall introduces qualified private investors to opportunities typically reserved for institutional clients. With over €200 million in assets under management and a presence in key financial hubs across Europe, the firm is guided by a mission to deliver clarity, performance, and peace of mind to its clients. For media inquiries or partnership opportunities, visit the main website at Contact details: Website: name: Moorehall SecuritiesContact Person: Joseph ThomasEmail: info@ SOURCE: Moorehall Securities View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
