The Gulf Time Newspaper One of the finest business newspapers in the UAE brought to you by our professional writers and editors.
The hashtag #ElectionUAE was among the UAE’s top trends on Twitter, proving it to be one of the most talked about topics across the country.
Social media was abuzz with news about the Federal National Council (FNC) elections on Saturday, with enthusiasts tweeting progress updates.
The hashtag #ElectionUAE was among the UAE’s top trends on Twitter, proving it to be one of the most talked about topics across the country.
Following the visit of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to the polling station at the Dubai World Trade Centre, @DXBMediaOffice tweeted: “Mohammed: Democracy in our country (is) strong and deep-rooted in our society since the time (of our) grandparents, parents.”
Pictures of Shaikh Mohammed inspecting the polling centre did the rounds on social media. However, the Dubai Ruler did not send out any official tweets from his personal Twitter handle @HHShkMohd.
Many UAE residents, including expatriates who are not eligible to vote, praised the election process.
UK-born Dubai resident @mohysuliman tweeted: “So happy for the UAE, elections are running smoothly & proving that all the stereotypes about Gulf nations are biased judgement #ElectionUAE.”
@eucalyps1 lauded Dubai’s Ruler for turning out and inspiring his fellow countrymen to vote: “@DXBMediaOffice and leader of true spirit @HHShkMohd to uphold the zest of democracy.”
Polling stations across the UAE opened at 8am on Saturday. Though the final day of the vote was expected to attract huge crowds, a few quiet periods were noted during the morning and afternoon, according to some Twitter users.
Using the handle @DeepthiUk, Abu Dhabi resident Deepthi Unnikrishnan tweeted: “After the brief afternoon lull, voters are back to the booths in #AbuDhabu #ElectionUAE #FNC.
“Was quiet here at ADNEC for about an hour in the afternoon. Voters are trickling back in now.”
However, the steady influx of voters made for an easy election process according to @aj_alshaali.
“Went to #vote today. Great organisation and a quick, smooth voting process.”
Using touch screen e-voting machines, dozens of election staff were on hand at all polling stations to help voters.
Copyright © 2015 Khaleej Times. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).