What are the steps to buy my first property in Dubai?

Roughly: get mortgage pre-approval, shortlist and view properties, agree a price and sign an MOU (Form F) with a ~10% deposit, obtain the developer's NOC, then complete the transfer at a DLD-registered trustee office where you pay fees and receive the title deed. Pre-approval first is the beginner-critical step - it fixes your real budget before you fall for a home.