American expatriates residing in the UAE have been actively participating in the recent presidential election, either through online platforms or by utilizing the postal ballot system available at the US embassy or consulates. The election officially concluded on Tuesday, November 5.

In a recent statement to Khaleej Times, the Consular Chiefs at the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the US Consulate General in Dubai mentioned, “Numerous absentee ballots have been submitted by US citizens living in the UAE. While precise registration figures are not available, we are hopeful that voter turnout this year will exceed that of 2020.” For those who voted on November 5, the mission emphasized the need to bring a US passport as identification when submitting ballots.

“US citizens in Dubai and Abu Dhabi can cast their votes by mail by delivering their completed ballots to the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the US Consulate in Dubai. The ballots should be placed in a signed and sealed envelope addressed to the voter's local election office. Voters are advised to verify the mailing address, deadlines, and other requirements specific to their state by visiting the Federal Voting Assistance Program's website at fvap.gov. Many states mandate that ballots be postmarked and mailed no later than election day, November 5. Both the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the US Consulate General in Dubai can mail voted ballots back to the United States and provide guidance on local mailing options and estimated mail transit times,” the statement detailed.

Meanwhile, expatriates in the UAE noted the varying levels of flexibility offered by different US states. While some states provided convenient online voting options, others required the mailing of physical ballots, which can be both costly and challenging for overseas voters. Notably, US citizens received their absentee ballots via email, fax, or internet download, depending on their state's eligibility criteria and submission methods.

Democrat Kamala Harris, the current US Vice-President, and Republican Donald Trump, the former president, have been fiercely competing in the weeks leading up to the election. The announcement of a projected winner may be delayed by several hours, days, or even weeks, depending on the closeness of the race.

Gina Bou Serhal, an American expatriate in the UAE, expressed her gratitude for being from the state of Nevada, which allows online voting. “We simply need to register in advance with all our details and receive a ballot via email. We then complete it and send it back. The process couldn't be easier. However, it varies by state. Some, like Nevada, make it very easy and flexible for those living abroad, while others require mailing a physical copy of the ballot, which can be challenging and expensive,” she explained.

The analyst also highlighted the significance of this election for peace in the Middle East. “I believe the Harris camp will be more inclined towards diplomatic efforts to achieve sustainable peace in Gaza. With Trump, we might see a harder stance towards Iran, using economic pressure to bring them to the negotiation table. It's difficult to predict, as both candidates have been somewhat vague. Additionally, Harris is part of the current administration, and given the fluid events in the region, she cannot significantly differentiate her policies from Biden's. Thus, it has been challenging to understand her future policies regarding the Middle East,” said the resident who has been in the UAE for 17 years.

“However, I sincerely hope she will prioritize ceasefire, hostage negotiations, and finally achieve a two-state solution. Trump, on the other hand, is seeking the 'deal of the century' with Israel and Saudi Arabia. A lot is at stake in this election,” Serhal added.

Dubai resident Aaron Jon submitted his postal vote a few weeks ago, describing the process as seamless. “We utilized the absentee voting system, which allows us to vote from abroad,” he said. “I mailed the envelope about three weeks ago.” He admitted to being anxious about the election's outcome, which is expected to be one of the most closely contested in American history. “I am nervous, but I guess what will be, will be,” he added. “I have voted in every election since becoming an adult, except the last one. I recognize the privilege of voting and take this responsibility very seriously.”

Savannah Collins (name changed upon request), who arrived in the UAE seven months ago, cast her vote at the American consulate. “I'm originally from New York State, and I recently voted at the American consulate. I don't anticipate any drastic changes post-elections; things will likely continue as usual. I'm thankful for this opportunity to engage, especially from abroad, and to be living in this beautiful country,” she said.

Results may take longer to be announced this year due to changes in election administration since 2020 across various states, including seven key swing states that will ultimately determine the outcome. American expatriate in Dubai, Natalia Miranda, who couldn’t cast her vote, expressed excitement about the days following Tuesday. “Even people like my mother, who lives in the US but has mobility issues, voted a couple of weeks ago by mail, as she cannot physically go to a polling station,” Miranda added.

Although no in-person events are scheduled specifically for Election Day, US citizens are encouraged to contact VoteAbuDhabi@state.gov or VoteDubai@state.gov for additional guidance on voting by mail. US citizens cannot vote in person at US embassies or consulates.

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