2025 Huairou Great Wall Marathon And Zayed Charity Run To Foster Friendship And Cooperation

The Zayed Charity Run, in collaboration with the People's Government of Huairou District, has announced the 2025 Huairou Great Wall Marathon & Zayed Charity Run. This event will debut in Beijing on 21st September 2025. The announcement was made at a press conference attended by over 100 notable guests, including government officials, sports leaders, and diplomats from both the UAE and China.

The launch event, hosted by the People’s Government of Huairou District and supported by the UAE Embassy in Beijing, featured a comprehensive program. It included video presentations from the UAE, introductions of esteemed guests, and a detailed race briefing by the Huairou Sports Bureau. Speeches from dignitaries of both nations highlighted the event's significance.

Lieutenant General Mohamed Helal Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Zayed Charity Run, was among those present. Senior Chinese officials from various sectors also attended, emphasizing the event's diplomatic and sporting importance. The UAE delegation enriched the occasion with traditional Emirati refreshments and showcased content on the Zayed Charity Run’s global mission.

The 2025 marathon will feature diverse cultural and sporting activities. A notable highlight is the "Robot & Family Charity Run" on September 20, marking its first robot race. Additionally, there will be a race for people of determination and a family fun run to foster community spirit.

The "Emirati House" cultural fair will occur at Mutianyu Great Wall from September 19 to 21. Visitors can immerse themselves in Emirati traditions through folk arts, handicrafts, and cuisine while experiencing Emirati hospitality's warmth. This adds a rich cultural dimension to the marathon events.

Established in Abu Dhabi in 2001, the Zayed Charity Run was inspired by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's vision to help those in need. Over its 22 editions in Abu Dhabi, it has become a symbol of spreading love and compassion globally. The inaugural race drew over 168,000 participants.

Charitable Impact and Health Promotion

Since going international in 2005 with its first edition in New York City followed by Cairo in 2014, the run has become a leading charitable initiative worldwide. It funds treatments for chronic illnesses like kidney disease and cancer while supporting children's hospitals and medical research.

"This event is more than just a race; it is a message of friendship and cooperation," said Lieutenant General Mohamed Helal Al Kaabi. "Let us run together… for health, for friendship, and for the power of giving that unites hearts across distances and borders."

Beyond fundraising, the Zayed Charity Run promotes health awareness and encourages active lifestyles within communities. It serves as a powerful platform for humanitarian efforts and social good worldwide.

With inputs from WAM