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Dubai/Abu Dhabi: Russia's place in the world is a major concern for Russian residents of the UAE.
Serghey Tokarev, General Manager of Russian Emirates advertising and magazine, said he supported anyone from Vladimir Putin's circle because the departing president worked to build a strong Russia as a "single unit".
"People used to think I was from a poor and weak country when I told them I was Russian. But not anymore. Not after Putin's policies," he said, adding although Russia's relations with the outside world had changed, they were still cordial.
"We've moved from being a friend that was a source of cheap raw materials to being a serious partner," he said, adding his preferred candidate, Dmitry Medvedev, would likely follow in that path.
Natalya Eratova, a flight attendant, 26, said she was concerned about how Russia was viewed by the rest of the world. "The media always makes us look like a third world country. Russia is portrayed very poorly," she said.
Social situation
But her primary concern is the social situation in Russia. "Our country needs a president that is not afraid of saying what is right, that is willing to stand up to the big superpowers. But at the end of the day, my hope is for social improvement for my country."
Ismter Alisher's connection with his homeland is fresh. He arrived in the UAE just three months ago to work as a waiter. Although he considers elections to be a positive step, he hopes Russia's image in the world improves.
"Sure the process may not be as democratic as the world wants it to be, but it is a great step," he said.
"I hope we are able to improve our relationships with surrounding countries and with the West," he added.
But he believes younger Russians are not too concerned about the outcome of the elections. "I just hope Russia becomes more involved in young people's lives and inspires future leaders," he said.
Sergey Tarakanov, a Russian working in the aviation industry, said he hoped the next Russian president would be "just like Putin".
"We need someone who will take Russia forward gradually and step by step. We don't need anyone that is revolutionary. Change in Russia shouldn't come too fast," he said.
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