Early voting opens in UAE parliamentary elections

ISTANBUL

Early voting started in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Wednesday to elect members of the country’s consultative parliament.

The polls for the Federal National Council (FNC) are scheduled for Oct. 7, but early voting takes place on Oct. 4-6 for voters who are unable to cast ballots on the election day.

This hybrid voting system allows Emirati voters to either cast ballot in one of the ballot centers or through online digital applications.

Some 309 candidates are vying for 20 seats in the 40-member assembly, including 128 females, according to the state news agency WAM.

The remaining FNC members will be appointed by the UAE rulers.

FNC plays a pivotal role in shaping the Gulf country’s policies and offers recommendations to the Emirati government.

*Writing by Ahmed Asmar