24th Zayed Charity Run attracts over 10,000 participants

November 29, 2025 / 10:53 PM

Sharjah 24: The 24th edition of the Zayed Charity Run took place in Abu Dhabi, bringing together athletes, families, and friends from all walks of life. The race started at Wahat Al Karama and finished at the Heritage Hotel Abu Dhabi, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in the Al Dhafra Region.

Race inauguration and global participation

Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan officially inaugurated the event, which embodies the spirit of giving and humanity. Over 10,000 participants took part, including elite athletes, children, and the families of the nation’s martyrs. Delegations from China and Brazil also joined, adding an international dimension to the event’s humanitarian message.

Prizes, landmarks, and festive atmosphere

A total of AED 1.5 million in prizes was awarded across all categories. Participants ran past iconic landmarks, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Zayed Sports City arenas, and Wahat Al Karama. The race village featured entertainment, food stalls, heritage performances, interactive games, and family-friendly activities, creating a festive National Day atmosphere.

Community spirit and humanitarian impact

Fans lined the course, cheering for every participant, including athletes with disabilities. Lieutenant General (Ret.) Mohammed Hilal Al Kaabi highlighted that the event mobilizes support for medical causes, including research at the Abu Dhabi Stem Cell Center, reflecting the UAE’s deeply rooted spirit of compassion and solidarity.

Officials’ statements

His Excellency Aref Hamad Al Awani, Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, praised the race for uniting the community and upholding Sheikh Zayed’s values of giving. Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi emphasised that race proceeds support pioneering stem cell therapies and improve patient outcomes across the UAE.

Race results

In the men’s 10km race, Obaid Al Nuaimi finished first, followed by Abdullah Surour and Saleh Al Suwaidi. In the women’s 10km race, Vilma Lindry took first place, followed by Ruqaya Al Marzouqi and Alia Al Shamsi. The women’s 5km race was won by Hessa Al Jasmi, with Mariam Al Shamsi and Shoug Al Balushi coming second and third. Saeed Al Nuaimi won the men’s 5km race, ahead of Saif Al Alawi and Amer Al Ali. In the men’s 3km category, Saud Al Zaabi came first, followed by Rashid Alwan and Hamad Al Badawi, while Hamda Al Ali won the women’s 3km race, with Noura Al Ghafli and Mahra Jassim completing the podium.