Overseas Voter Registration for Filipinos in Abu Dhabi for 2028 PH Elections

Filipinos living and working in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain can register as overseas voters for the 2028 Philippine national elections.

Registration began on December 1, 2025, and will continue until September 30, 2027.

Eligible Filipino citizens may apply for first-time registration, certification, reactivation, and other changes to their existing voter records.

The Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi is among the authorized diplomatic offices receiving overseas voter registration applications.

Who Can Register to Vote?

Filipinos in Abu Dhabi may apply if they are Filipino citizens who will be at least 18 years old on May 8, 2028.

They must also meet the legal qualifications for overseas voting.

Qualified applicants include OFWs, immigrants, dual citizens, and other Filipinos who will be abroad during the overseas voting period.

Those previously registered in another country may need to transfer their existing overseas voter records.

 

Where to Register in Abu Dhabi

Filipinos may approach the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi.

The Embassy’s general consular page lists these business hours and refers to an appointment system for consular services. However, applicants should confirm the specific arrangement for overseas voter registration before booking or visiting.

Filipinos living in Al Ain should also watch for officially announced consular outreach activities that include voter registration.

What Documents Should Applicants Bring?

Applicants should prepare their OVF1 form and applicable identification document.

These may include:

• Valid Philippine passport

• Seafarer’s Record Book for eligible seafarers

• Citizenship approval or identification certificate for eligible dual citizens

Applicants requesting record corrections or name changes should prepare supporting documents.

Step-by-Step Registration Process in Abu Dhabi

1. Check whether your overseas voter registration is already active.

2. Download or prepare the OVF1 application form.

3. Check the Philippine Embassy’s latest registration instructions.

4. Visit the Embassy or an authorized registration venue.

5. Present the required identification documents.

6. Complete the application, verification, and biometrics procedures.

7. Keep your acknowledgment receipt.

The Resident Election Registration Board reviews applications before approval.

Is Online Voter Registration Available in Abu Dhabi?

Filipinos may prepare their application using COMELEC’s iRehistro portal.

The online service allows applicants to accomplish the OVF1 form using their personal details and overseas address.

However, completing iRehistro does not automatically register the applicant as an overseas voter.

First-time applicants must still complete the required in-person registration and biometrics procedures.

COMELEC also provides a separate Virtual Frontline Service for certain transactions involving existing overseas voters with complete biometrics.

Applicants should not confuse these services with online voting, which concerns how approved voters cast their ballots.

What Filipinos in Abu Dhabi Should Do Next

Filipinos should check their registration status and contact the Philippine Embassy if they need to register, reactivate, or update their records.

The registration deadline for the 2028 elections is September 30, 2027.