UAE: FNC candidates can now register remotely for the first time

Registration of candidates eyeing a berth in the UAE's Federal National Council — a parliamentary body of 40 lawmakers — began on Tuesday, with the committee tasked with overseeing the election process allowing online applications in a first.

On the first day, the National Election Committee 2023 received 162 applications, including 58 from Abu Dhabi, 23 from Dubai and 29 from Sharjah. Registrations will continue till Friday. Candidates can submit their applications to the emirate committee they belong to, in line with the practice followed in previous years.

"The remarkable aspect of the fifth cycle (of FNC elections) is the opportunity for remote registration through the website or the smart application. For those who prefer in-person registration, we remain at their service," Issa Al Muhairi, Chairman of the Dubai Election Committee, said.

According to its website, FNC's main functions are passing, amending or rejecting federal draft laws including financial bills; examining the Annual General Budget draft law and the draft law of the final accounts; discussing international treaties and agreements; and discussing general subject pertaining to the affairs of the Federation and offering recommendations.

Candidates running for the FNC elections must be citizens of one of the emirates of the UAE. They should be at least 25 years old at the time of candidacy submission — and possess civil eligibility, a good reputation and a clean record. Additionally, they must have sufficient proficiency in reading and writing.

• UAE elections: All you need to know about FNC polls in 2023