US election night is a family affair for expats in UAE

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Dubai - Some told Khaleej Times that they would even take a day off to be with their families as they watch the “most decisive” elections of their life.

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Published: Mon 2 Nov 2020, 8:19 PM

Last updated: Mon 2 Nov 2020, 8:20 PM

With the US presidential polls set to close tonight, American expatriates in the UAE have said they will be ‘glued to their screens’ at home, awaiting results.

Some told Khaleej Times that they would even take a day off to be with their families as they watch the “most decisive” elections of their life.


According to a New York Times report, although many winners may quickly be evident on election night, the increase in mail voting because of the pandemic is expected to push back the release of full results in several key states.

Expats said they intend to watch the results unfold from the comfort and safety of their homes, stressing that they wouldn’t risk going to crowded areas amid the pandemic.


Kefah Alkadi, an American expat with Arab roots who has been living in Dubai for 14 years, said: “A majority of registered Democrats have opted for mail voting, including my sons. The counting is expected to go on for a long time, so I don’t see the point of going out to watch the results. Also, with the pandemic, it is better to stay at home.”

Alkadi added: “I am rooting for Biden to win especially because of the way Trump has dealt with the Covid-19 crisis. Also, I am not a fan of the way he treats people of different races.”

Naeema Zaki, an American expat who has been a UAE resident for 10 years, said: “I am going to watch at home with family. I am working from home and I have no plans of going out somewhere. I am not even aware of any restaurants with plans on broadcasting the event because counting is expected to go on late into the night.”

Shukri Deria, a stay-at-home mum, said it would strictly be a family affair for them. “My husband took the day off, and we are all planning on staying at home to watch the results.”

dhanusha@khaleejtimes.com


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