Zayed Charity Run 2025: A Pledge to Health and Research

The 24th Zayed Charity Run in Abu Dhabi is set for Saturday, November 29, 2025, under the esteemed patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This iconic event, which has evolved into a significant global humanitarian effort inspired by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, embodies themes of compassion, generosity, and community cohesion.

Runners will traverse a scenic route between the Wahat Al Karama and ERTH Hotel Abu Dhabi, with an expected turnout of 15,000 participants competing in 3km, 5km, and 10km categories. The event venue will double as a community hub, providing both beautiful paths for runners and ideal viewpoints for spectators. Participants will vie for a rewarding prize pool of AED 1.5 million, with medallion ceremonies scheduled for the same day for all race categories.

The proceeds from the 2025 event will support groundbreaking medical research initiatives at the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center (ADSCC). These programs will address personalized cancer treatments, data-driven precision medicine, and innovative perinatal care. The aim is to foster community well-being, innovation, and significant health impacts while advancing critical medical research in the UAE.

Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Mohamed Helal Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Zayed Charity Run’s Higher Organising Committee, noted, “The Zayed Charity Run continues to grow in its purpose and impact, uniting our community in support of vital causes. Each year, we witness families, athletes, and organizations coming together for a healthier and more compassionate tomorrow. This year, we reaffirm our commitment to furthering essential medical research, with proceeds being directed towards innovative projects at ADSCC.”

He continued, “We eagerly anticipate welcoming everyone to a day that celebrates unity, wellness, and the spirit of generosity inherent in the UAE.”

Aref Hamad Al Awani, Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, remarked, “The Zayed Charity Run captures the essence of Abu Dhabi: energetic, inclusive, and dedicated to strengthening community initiatives. It unites individuals from diverse backgrounds in a manner that honors the late Sheikh Zayed’s vision, highlighting the role of sports in fostering unity and societal upliftment. We look forward to another memorable edition that showcases generosity, health, and national pride.”

Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Executive Director of the Abu Dhabi Bone Marrow Transplant Program at ADSCC, underlined how vital the event’s support is for medical research. She shared, “We are immensely appreciative that this year’s Zayed Charity Run will advance our treatment and research initiatives at ADSCC. This backing empowers our capabilities to innovate stem-cell therapies, expand clinical research, and enhance patient outcomes throughout the UAE. It gives hope to patients and their families, affirming our dedication to improving health and offering top-tier care in our community.”

Since its inception in 2001, the Zayed Charity Run has transcended being just a race; it stands as a beacon for health advocacy, community involvement, and humanitarian outreach. The 2025 edition will continue this legacy, encouraging participation from individuals, families, and organizations, while fueling research that can significantly impact medical advancements and patient care within the UAE.