Egyptian expats in UAE vote for their next president

Dubai - Wael Gad, Egyptian Ambassador to the UAE, told Khaleej Times that he is proud of the large number of turnouts.

Hundreds of Egyptians flocked to their embassy in Abu Dhabi and the consulate in Dubai to cast their votes as part of the three-day presidential elections.
Wael Gad, Egyptian Ambassador to the UAE, told Khaleej Times that he is proud of the large number of turnouts. "It is something unbelievable, everyone is happy and cheering. Small numbers were expected, but the has been huge. I think the second and third day we will see more voters here."
The ambassador added that he is proud of the Egyptian community in the UAE. "Even people with special needs showed up to do their national duty. Everyone is happy and we are doing our very best to let them vote in a short time."
Ahmed Assaf, a representative from the presidential campaign, said that by mid Friday, there was around 12,000 votes in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. 
"Today's vote is particularly important, because it will change a lot of things in Egypt."
Ahmad Raafat, deputy consul general, told Khaleej Times: "The election committee in charge at the consulate was surprised with the number of people who reached the polling stations even before the doors were open. They were raising the national flags of Egypt, and banners reading long-live Egypt."
"The citizens showed up at 7am; two hours before due opening time at 9am," he said. "They were so motivated to participate in the democratic process and shape the future of their great nation."
reporters@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE
• Abu Dhabi
• Dubai
• MENA