From Celebrations to Concerns: American Expats in the UAE Respond to Trump’s Victory, Reflecting on a Divisive and Monumental Moment in U.S. Politics.
As news of Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 U.S. presidential election spread, American expatriates living in the UAE found themselves caught in a whirlwind of emotions. With Trump set to become the first former president in over 130 years to return to the White House, expats expressed both joy and apprehension, reflecting the deep political divide that marks this moment in history.
Celebrations and Hope for Change
For Afkar Ahmed, an American of Sudanese origin, Trump’s anticipated return was cause for celebration. “I’ve shared sweets and treated everyone at the office to pizza because I’m thrilled about Trump’s potential win,” she said, speaking to Khaleej Times. She explained that she had been tracking the results since early morning, keeping in touch with family back home. “My older son, who’s studying in the U.S., said, ‘We’re not going to college today; everyone is awake, and there’s a general sense of euphoria.’ Most students are rooting for Trump,” she added with pride.
Ahmed believes Trump’s stance on key issues such as illegal immigration, foreign policy, and economic growth resonates deeply with the public. “Trump’s pragmatic approach is exactly what this country needs. He knows how to get things done,” she asserted. She also emphasized that Trump’s business acumen and international relationships, particularly with the UAE, would foster growth and stability. “I’m hopeful he will work toward resolving conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and Sudan, and apply pressure to end the war in Ukraine,” she said, underscoring her faith in his leadership.
Concerns Over Trump’s Policies
While some expats felt optimistic about Trump’s return, others voiced concerns about the implications for their communities. Renad Elamin, an Arab American living in the UAE, expressed disappointment with Trump’s stance on immigration and foreign policy. “It often feels like he doesn’t fully accept or respect our community, and that’s painful,” she shared. The ongoing conflicts in Palestine and Lebanon only heightened her unease. “It’s hard not to worry that his foreign policies could be shaped by a lack of empathy or understanding for the Arab world.”
Elamin’s concerns reflect a larger sentiment among expats who fear that Trump’s policies may continue to undermine the rights of immigrants and marginalized communities. “When you see policies or comments that seem to target us, it’s hard not to feel like he sees us as outsiders in our own country,” she explained, a sentiment echoed by many others in the region.
Respecting the Democratic Process
For Natalia Miranda, a Californian living in Dubai, Trump’s victory was a wake-up call. She woke up at 4 a.m. to check the election results, only to find a flurry of messages from people back home. “I’m part of a few WhatsApp groups where I’ve been discussing the election, and based on the conversations I had a couple of days ago, I gathered that this was the likely outcome,” she explained. Despite initially predicting a victory for Kamala Harris, Miranda expressed respect for the democratic process. “The people of the United States have made their voices heard,” she said, noting the challenging circumstances that led to Harris entering the race late.
Miranda acknowledged that while Harris had strong endorsements, including from high-profile figures like Beyoncé, it was Trump’s policies on the economy, employment, and foreign relations that resonated more with the American public. “Ultimately, this is a historical moment for the people of the United States of America,” she remarked, reflecting the significance of this election in shaping the nation’s future.
A Divisive Yet Monumental Moment
Trump’s victory in 2024 is not just another election result—it is a historical moment that has sparked both excitement and trepidation among American expats in the UAE. For some, it represents a return to values they support; for others, it signals the continuation of policies they find troubling. Yet, regardless of individual perspectives, it is clear that the U.S. has entered a new chapter, one that will shape the political landscape for years to come.
As the dust settles and the world watches Trump’s second term unfold, the diverse reactions of American expatriates in the UAE underscore the deep divisions and passions that continue to define American politics. Whether cheering for his return or fearing the implications of his leadership, these expats remain a part of the broader conversation on the future of the United States, from abroad.
