Registration Now Open For Huairou Great Wall Marathon And Zayed Charity Run In Beijing 2025

Registration is now open for the Huairou Great Wall Marathon and Zayed Charity Run 2025, set for 21st September in Beijing. This event is organised by the Higher Organising Committee of the Zayed Charity Run. It represents a cultural and sporting partnership between the UAE and China. The marathon is part of a global series that includes races in several countries, such as the UAE, Brazil, Egypt, the United States, and Hungary.

The Great Wall Marathon will host over 51,000 runners in a race rated A1 by the Chinese Athletics Association. The course stretches from Beijing Yanqi Lake International Convention & Exhibition Centre to Mutianyu Great Wall Travel Area. Participants will pass significant cultural landmarks along the way. Chinese athletes can register through local marathon platforms and WeChat starting from 8th August. There are also dedicated channels for participants from the UAE, including Emirati athletes, residents, embassy staff, and others.

Pre-race activities are scheduled to include a robot race and events for families and People of Determination on 20th September. Additionally, a cultural programme will run from 19th to 21st September at the Mutianyu Great Wall. The event will conclude with an awards ceremony on 21st September.

The Zayed Charity Run was first launched in Abu Dhabi in 2001 to honour Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s founding father. Since its inception, it has raised over $173 million for medical treatments and humanitarian causes worldwide. The event has attracted more than 613,000 runners in international editions held in cities like New York and Cairo, with Beijing now joining this list.

Lt. General (Ret.) Mohammed Hilal Al Kaabi serves as Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee. He plans to hold a press conference in Beijing on 18th August to announce full details of the event. This announcement will be made in cooperation with the UAE Embassy in Beijing and various Chinese government entities.

The marathon's route offers participants a unique experience by combining athletic challenge with cultural exploration. Runners will traverse paths that highlight China's rich heritage while engaging in a globally recognised sporting event.

This collaboration between the UAE and China not only strengthens bilateral ties but also promotes cultural exchange through sports. By participating in this marathon series, both nations aim to foster mutual understanding and goodwill among their people.

With inputs from WAM