Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week Celebrates Active Play With WED Fun Run Event

The Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA), in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, organised the third WED Fun Run at Zayed Sports City Stadium. This event is part of the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week 2025, which aims to transform early childhood development knowledge into action through ECA’s World Early Childhood Development (WED) Movement.

More than 500 children and their caregivers participated in a one-kilometre run filled with interactive challenges, games, and entertainment. The event fostered outdoor activity and connection among families. It was a reflection of the week’s spirit, which concludes on Sunday, 23 November, after delivering over 300 activities with more than 65 partners like ADNOC and PureHealth.

Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week is under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The week integrates learning, health, and recreation to emphasise the importance of early years and position Abu Dhabi as a family-friendly Emirate. The WED Fun Run exemplifies this focus by encouraging family participation and promoting child wellbeing.

This year’s run included several special moments. Among the youngest participants was a three-year-old child. Many families returned after participating in previous editions, showing their strong connection to the event. Enhancements included an expanded activity area for more interaction between parents and children.

Saeed Talal Al Hashemi from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council stated: "We are pleased to partner with ECA in delivering this year’s WED Fun Run. This event reflects our shared belief that a healthy lifestyle begins in childhood. Creating dedicated spaces for children to play and move supports their wellbeing and helps build a more active and health-conscious community."

The WED Fun Run aligns with the Year of Community 2025 goals by encouraging family participation and promoting child wellbeing. It provides inspiring experiences that support a more active, connected generation. The event highlights how movement and play contribute to children's development during their early years.

Benefits of Physical Activity

Dr. Yousef Al Hammadi from ECA explained: "The WED Fun Run is a clear example of how movement and play support children’s development in their early years. Physical activity builds motor skills, supports healthy growth, and deepens the bond between a child and their caregivers." The collaboration with Abu Dhabi Sports Council offers joyful experiences for families.

The WED Movement derives its name from the Arabic word "WED," meaning affection and nurturing care. It symbolises UAE's belief in combining innovation with tradition to advance early childhood development. The initiative aims to connect ideas, people, and systems globally for impactful actions.

With inputs from WAM