The Syrian opposition and its Western allies have denounced the election as a sham designed to lend Assad a veneer of electoral legitimacy.
In Amman, Jordan, whose government has supported the rebels trying to topple Assad, the picture was different.
Dozens gathered outside the Syrian embassy to protest the voting. Some carried placards that read: "Anyone who votes has no morals."
"My son was one of the people who started the protests against the regime. He was unarmed but they killed him," said a Syrian woman from Damascus who identified herself as Um Mutazz al-Shaar. She said all those who were coming to vote were doing so out of fear.
Lima Darazini, a pro-government voter from Aleppo, said she voted for Assad. "Why? Because we used to live in safety during his rule, and because we love him."
In Lebanon, a country long dominated by its Syrian neighbor, the election turned into a massive show of support for Assad. There are about 1.1 million Syrians who live in Lebanon as refugees. Many among the refugees and opposition supporters abroad are expected to boycott the vote. There are two other candidates in the race but they are seen as mostly symbolic contenders and little known figures.
Expatriate voting was to take place in Syrian embassies and consulates abroad where the staff has not defected to the opposition. Some European countries including France and Germany have said they will not allow Syrian expatriate voting to be held in their capitals. AP To watch Nicole Hajal's report, please click on the VIDEO above