WED Fun Run Brings Joy to Families at Zayed Sports City

Held at Zayed Sports City Stadium, the WED Fun Run’s third edition united families across Abu Dhabi. Coordinated by the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) with support from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, this event was part of Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week 2025—a celebration aimed at enhancing young children's growth, learning, and health.

As a key feature of the WED Movement, which emphasizes the values of affection and care in early childhood development, the Fun Run embodies the UAE’s vision of merging modern innovation with traditional support for child wellbeing. The movement fosters collaboration among experts and organizations to advance childhood education and health initiatives.

More than 500 children and caregivers participated in this year’s one-kilometer fun run, engaging in various playful challenges and entertainment. The lively atmosphere promoted physical activity, family bonding, and joyful memories as children sprinted and explored interactive stations designed for movement-based learning.

Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week 2025, concluding on November 23, consists of over 300 activities coordinated with 65 partner organizations. Notable collaborators include ADNOC as the Energy Partner, PureHealth as the Health Partner, and the National Academy for Childhood Development as the Vision Partner. Together, they facilitate programs that enhance physical health and family engagement across the emirate.

Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, this week integrates recreation, education, and health, emphasizing early childhood’s significance. The initiative aims to establish Abu Dhabi as a family-centered city, providing children with abundant opportunities to thrive.

This year’s event was memorable, showcasing participants as young as three years old. Many families returned to partake again, reflecting the event's importance in their lives. Expanded interactive areas allowed for more meaningful experiences for parents and children alike, with new games and challenges exhilarating the young runners.

Dr. Yousef Al Hammadi, ECA's Executive Director of the Knowledge & Impact Sector, expressed the importance of physical activity in early development. He emphasized how the WED Fun Run demonstrates that play fosters motor skill development and strengthens caregiver-child relationships, citing pride in the partnership with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council for delivering a memorable family experience.

Saeed Talal Al Hashemi, Executive Director of the Events Sector at the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, highlighted the event’s role in promoting early healthy lifestyles to build a robust community. Activities like the Fun Run inspire children to engage in play, enhancing overall well-being and physical activity. The council is dedicated to supporting integrated activities that blend sports, education, and family involvement.

The WED Fun Run contributes to the objectives of the Year of Community 2025, which aims at enhancing family participation and child wellbeing while nurturing a connected community. By fostering movement and shared experiences, the event nurtures a positive environment for the upcoming generation to thrive with confidence, health, and joy.

In its third iteration, the WED Fun Run proved to be a touching and impactful gathering that celebrated family togetherness and the principles of early development and community engagement. With abundant participation and cheerful moments throughout the day, it remains a cherished event for families in Abu Dhabi.