Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, the Foreign Minister, was one of many to cast their vote in the FNC elections overseas.
In New York for a UN meeting, Sheikh Abdullah said early voting – a first for the UAE – was an important step in including all eligible voters in the country’s politics.
“The UAE is committed to remain in constant contact with its citizens abroad so as to engage them in every development process that aims to achieve more progress and success for the state and to do whatever in its power to enable Emirati citizens abroad to exercise their right of suffrage,” he said.
“The FNC elections underpin the confidence and absolute belief of Emirati citizens in the sound approaches of the wise leadership, which believes in their capabilities and roles in realising the sustainable development and preserving the standing of the UAE in all fields.”
Ninety-four overseas polling stations were open for the two-day voting, which ended on Monday.
Tariq Lootah, undersecretary of the Ministry of State for FNC Affairs and the chairman of the Election Management Committee, expressed happiness about the turnout.
Active participation in the electoral process was a natural reflection of the increased awareness among all members of society, he said, adding that the FNC played an important role in bringing the community’s affairs to light and acting as their voice
And as voters prepared for the big day, on October 3, Dubai’s Events Security Committee announced the availability of smart services for voters on Android and IOS, in Arabic and English.
The app will provide information on polling stations, such as location and a map, as well as nearby parking spaces.
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