For Filipinos in Abu Dhabi looking to participate in the upcoming Philippines elections 2028, overseas voter registration is an important process to understand. Here’s what you need to know.
In the previous Philippine national elections, 28,523 overseas Filipino residents in Abu Dhabi registered to cast their votes. This number highlights the level of civic participation among Filipinos living in the emirate.
For OFWs based in Dubai and Northern Emirates, please see this overseas registration guide here – Overseas Voting Registration for Filipinos in Dubai and Northern Emirates, UAE
Overseas voting registration in Abu Dhabi for Filipinos is a meticulously organized process, ensuring that every eligible expatriate has the opportunity to participate in the Philippines’ democratic elections. The Resident Election Registration Board (RERB) of the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi plays an important task in this event.
The Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi welcomed the first batch of eligible Filipino voter-registrants based in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi on 03 December 2025, marking the resumption of the continuing cycle for Overseas Voter Registration. The registration period will run from 03 December 2025 until 30 September 2027, giving qualified Filipinos across the UAE plenty of time to sign up.
Ambassador Ver encouraged everyone to take part, saying, “As the cycle for continuing registration for overseas voting begins anew, I call on all our kababayan in the UAE who are eligible voters to register and secure their Constitutional right to vote.”
If you’re a Filipino living in the UAE and want to join the list of overseas voters, the process is simple. You can fill out your registration form online at https://irehistro.comelec.gov.ph/ovf1, then appear in person at either the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai and Northern Emirates to file your application.
Just remember to bring any one of these documents: a valid Philippine Passport, a Seafarer’s Record Book, or a Certified Copy of Approval of Retention or Reacquisition of Philippine Citizenship (for dual citizens). Completing these steps within the registration window secures your spot to vote in the upcoming national elections.
Last April 20, 2026, the Second Hearing of the RERB in Abu Dhabi took place on 20 July 2026. During this session, applications for Overseas Voting that were submitted between April to June 2026 were thoroughly reviewed. The board focused on ensuring that all applications met the necessary requirements to secure the transparency and credibility of the registration process.
This quarterly hearing is part of the ongoing commitment to accommodate Filipino voters residing abroad before the registration period ends on 30 September 2027.
Regular assessments by the RERB aim to uphold the integrity of the voting system, enabling Filipinos in the UAE to participate in the democratic process with confidence and ease.
Philippine National Election – May 8, 2028
The 2028 Philippine National Elections will be an important event or Filipino citizens as they vote for key government positions, including the President, Vice President, Senators, and local officials. Both local and overseas Filipino voters will participate in choosing leaders who will govern for the next six years.
Scheduled for May 8, 2028, with overseas voting running from April 9 to May 8, 2028. For Filipinos living abroad, overseas voter registration is open from December 3, 2025, to September 30, 2027.
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) will oversee the process, ensuring fairness and transparency. Automated voting machines will again be used to improve efficiency and accuracy. As always, voter education, combating misinformation, and promoting clean elections will be top priorities heading into 2028.
Qualifications / Eligibility
- Be a Filipino citizen
- Be abroad during the voting period
- Be at least 18 years old on May 8, 2028
- Have no disqualifications under Philippine law
Who Are Disqualified?
You may be disqualified if you have:
- Lost your Filipino citizenship
- Renounced your Philippine citizenship or pledged allegiance to a foreign country (except dual citizens under RA 9225)
- Been convicted of an offense punishable by at least one year imprisonment (voting rights can be restored five years after completing your sentence)
- Been declared insane or incompetent by a competent authority
Requirements
- Valid Philippine Passport – Original and photocopy of relevant pages
- No Passport? – Obtain a certification from your foreign service post
- Seafarers – Include a photocopy of your Seaman’s Book
- Dual Citizens – Submit your Dual Citizenship certificate or Order of Approval
- Personal Appearance – Required for biometric capture
- OVF 1 Form – Download and complete the form from the COMELEC website
Note: Registered overseas voters with complete biometrics may use the OFOV’s Virtual Frontline Services (VFS). If transferring your registration to a Philippine locality, file your application at the local Office of the Election Officer.
How to Register Online for Overseas Voting
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Documents
- Valid Philippine passport (Dual Citizens may use Dual Citizenship Documents; Seafarers should have their Seaman’s Book)
Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form
- Visit the COMELEC website and complete the iRehistro online form.
- Generate the OVF1 form, which includes a QR code for verification.
Step 3: Submit the Application Form
- Save and print the OVF1 form on A4-sized paper.
- Submit the printed form to the nearest Overseas Voting (OV) registration site.
This process, governed by the Philippine Overseas Voting Act (R.A. 9189, amended by R.A. 10590), allows OFWs to vote from abroad. Your vote matters — make sure your voice is heard!
How to Register OFW Voting at the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi
Step 1: Go to the Embassy
Head to the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi at Villa 1, W-48, Street #8, Sector 2-23, Plot 51, P.O. Box 3215, Al Qubaisat, Abu Dhabi.
Step 2: Visit the Registration Counter
Proceed to the designated voter’s registration counter where Embassy staff will assist you.
Step 3: Provide Your Details
Share your personal information with the staff, including your full name, date of birth, and passport details.
Step 4: Verify Your Information
Double-check your details with the staff to ensure everything is accurate and correctly entered into the system.
Step 5: Collect Confirmation
Once registered, you’ll receive a confirmation or receipt. Keep this safe as proof of your registration.
Step 6: Stay Informed
Keep an eye on the Embassy’s official website for any updates or changes to the voter registration process.
Contact Information of the PH Embassy in Abu Dhabi
Address: Villa 1, W-48, Street #8, Sector 2-23, Plot 51 P.O. Box 3215, Al Qubaisat, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Contact number: (+971) 50-813-7836
Website: https://abudhabipe.dfa.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PHinUAE/
Office Hours:
Monday to Thursday : 7:30 am to 3:30pm
Friday : 7:30 am to 12:00 noon
Google Map Location
Map guide to the PH Embassy in UAE, Abu Dhabi office in Abu Dhabi, UAE: