| Legal Framework |
|---|
| Electoral Law | 10 August 2006 Cabinet Order No (4 )of 2006, Last updated on 16 February 2011 (decree no. 2 of 2011) |
| Mode of designation | indirectly elected 20 appointed 20 |
| Constituencies | 7 multi-member constituencies: - 4 members each from Abu Dhabi and Dubai - 3 members each from Sharjah and Ras al-Khaimah - 2 members each from Ajman, Fujairah and Umm al-Quwain |
| Voting system | Majority: Single Non-Transferable Vote (SNTV). Each elector votes for one candidate in his/her Emirate. Vacancies during the legislature are filled by the "next-in-line" candidate on the reserve list of the Emirate concerned. Voting is not compulsory. |
| Voter requirements | Requirements for membership of the Electoral College, a body which elects half (20) of the members of the Federal National Council: - citizenship of the United Arab Emirates (including naturalized citizens) - age: at least 25 years (the minimum age is decided by the ruler of each Emirate and may vary from one Emirate to another) |
| Candidates |
|---|
| Eligibility | Conditions vary in each of the seven Emirates Condition for elected seats: - membership of the Electoral College General conditions: - citizenship of the United Arab Emirates (including naturalized citizens) - age: at least 25 years (the minimum age is decided by the ruler of each Emirate and may vary from one Emirate to another) - Permanent residence in the Emirate in which the candidate is standing for election to the Federal National Council - literacy - good reputation |
| Incompatibilities | - any public post in the Federal Government, including ministerial posts |
| Candidacy requirements | - nomination by qualified electors - deposit of 1,000 Emirati dirhams (non-reimbursable) |