ABU DHABI (WAM)

The 24th Zayed Charity Run (ZCR) in Abu Dhabi will take place on November 29, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region.

Set between two iconic Abu Dhabi landmarks, Wahat Al Karama and ERTH Hotel Abu Dhabi, this year’s edition will welcome up to 15,000 participants across 3km, 5km and 10km categories. Both the start and finish points will serve as community hubs, offering scenic run routes and easy access for spectators.

Participants will compete for a total prize pool of Dh1.5 million, with medal ceremonies taking place on event day across all categories.

Since its launch in 2001, the ZCR has evolved into a global humanitarian movement inspired by the values of the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, values rooted in compassion, generosity, and strengthening solidarity among communities.

This year’s proceeds will support three pioneering medical research programmes at the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre (ADSCC), advancing personalised cancer therapy, bioinformatics-driven precision medicine, and innovative perinatal treatments. The run continues its mission of promoting health, innovation and meaningful community impact.

Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Mohamed Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee, said the ZCR is growing in purpose and impact each year as it brings the community together to support meaningful causes. “Each year, we witness families, athletes and organisations joining hands with a shared intention to contribute to a healthier and more compassionate future.

“This edition highlights our ongoing commitment to advancing vital medical research, with proceeds supporting innovative programmes at the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre. It is a responsibility we take great pride in, knowing that the collective efforts of our participants play a role in improving care, supporting scientific progress, and strengthening the wellbeing of society.

“We look forward to welcoming everyone to a day that not only celebrates togetherness and healthy living, but also honours the spirit of giving that the UAE is built upon.”

Aref Al Awani, Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said the Run reflects the “spirit of Abu Dhabi, active, inclusive and committed to supporting causes that strengthen our community. It brings people of all backgrounds together in a way that honours the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed and reinforces the role of sport in unifying and uplifting society. We look forward to another inspiring edition that celebrates generosity, wellbeing and national pride.”

Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Executive Director of the Bone Marrow Transplant Programme at ADSCC, expressed gratitude that the initiative will help advance our treatment and research programmes at ADSCC.

“This support strengthens our ability to develop pioneering stem-cell therapies, expand clinical research and improve patient outcomes across the UAE. It brings tangible hope to patients and their families and reinforces our commitment to advancing health and delivering world-class care to our community,” she said.