Abu dhabi: The Higher Organising Committee of the Zayed Charity Run has unveiled its plans for the 2025-2026 season, marking a significant milestone with the event's expansion to six international locations including China, Brazil, the UAE, Egypt, the United States, and Hungary. The race, honoring the legacy of the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, aims to foster global giving and social solidarity.
According to Emirates News Agency, during a press conference at ERTH Hotel in Abu Dhabi, Lt. General (Ret.) Mohammed Hilal Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee, emphasized that the expansion underscores global confidence in the race's mission and its positive impact on charitable and humanitarian initiatives. The season is set to commence on 21st September in Beijing, featuring a novel 5 km robot race alongside the traditional 10 km and 5 km races, with total prize money of US$30,000.
The race will continue in Rio de Janeiro on 5th October, then return to Abu Dhabi on 29th November, aligning with the UAE National Day and offering AED1.5 million in prizes. Cairo will host the fourth segment on 26th December with EGP20 million in prizes. Miami will host the fifth leg on 31st January, 2026, and the event will conclude in Budapest in May 2026.
Al Kaabi highlighted that future editions will expand further under the guidance of the UAE leadership and H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region. Aref Hamad Al Awani, Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, confirmed continued support for the race during the Year of Community, noting the inclusion of senior citizens in future editions.
Mohammed Haji Al Khouri, Director-General of the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, stated that the international expansion strengthens the race's humanitarian impact. Ahmed Sari Al Mazrouei, Secretary-General of the Emirates Red Crescent, expressed full support for the race across all venues. Yaqoub Al Saadi, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Sports Channels, assured ongoing global coverage, highlighting the UAE's leadership in humanitarian advocacy.
The Zayed Charity Run, first launched in Abu Dhabi in 2001, went global in 2005 with its first international edition in New York City and expanded further to Cairo in 2014. The race supports individuals with chronic illnesses, funds children's hospitals and research, and promotes health awareness and active lifestyles.