As the US presidential election heads into its last stretch before November 5 (Today), the US expats in the UAE have been doing their patriotic duty and mailing in ballots. Hundreds had dropped by the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi and US Consulate in Dubai to be mailed within the last weeks preceding the presidential election. Over all, the number would be even higher than it had been for the 2020 US presidential election.
American expats can vote by mail or online, depending on their state of residence. For most people, it’s been pretty straightforward. “The process couldn’t be easier,” said Gina Bou Serhal, a native of Nevada, who voted online. “I just signed up, got my vote via email, filled out, and sent back.” Others, such as Aaron Jon, availed themselves of postal voting, which made their submission possible even a day before the election date.
The race between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump has closely been followed, and the expats are worried how the election may affect global issues, especially in the Middle East. According to some expats, policies of the two candidates will have a huge impact on regional diplomacy. Harris is said to be pro-diplomatic engagement while Trump is known for economic pressure on countries like Iran.
While many expats appreciated the flexibility of the voting process, some states had stricter requirements, which made it a challenge for absentee voting. As the ballots are still being counted, Americans in the UAE anxiously await the results knowing that the outcome of this election can shape not only US policy but global relations for years to come.
