The 2024 edition of the Zayed Charity Run, attracting a massive entry of nearly 12,000 participants from all around the world and thousands more enthusiastic spectators, confirmed its reputation as the world’s foremost ‘Run for Kindness’ on Saturday at Erth Abu Dhabi while contributing to a greater good.

Donations this year will be dedicated to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, an NGO to empower people with multiple sclerosis through awareness, support, and efforts to find a cure.

This year, nearly 4,000 Emirati runners joined participants from India, the Philippines, Egypt, and various other countries, coming together to celebrate a truly global spirit of unity and determination. Over 2,000 children from over 115 schools participated in today’s run, with our oldest participant being 77 years of age.

The event also showcased an intense competitive spirit, with elite athletes vying for a generous prize pool of AED1.5 million. The winnings will be awarded across various categories, distances, and age groups, recognizing exceptional performances and celebrating athletic excellence.

Sheikh Yas bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan opened the proceedings by firing the starting gun for the 10km race to huge cheers, in the presence of Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Mohammed Hilal Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of the Zayed Charity Run.

This uplifting event invited runners of all abilities to come together for a memorable and meaningful day, offering something for everyone, from the fun-packed 3km family-friendly track to the 5km course for intermediate runners, and the challenging 10km route for those seeking to push their limits.

Mohammed Hilal Al Kaabi said, "The Zayed Charity Run is a living embodiment of the values of giving, humanity, and unity that our Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed, instilled in us. This year’s event was nothing short of extraordinary, a true celebration of community spirit, with more than 11,000 participants, including an unprecedented number of Emirati runners, coming together for a noble cause that touches so many lives.

"It’s truly heartwarming to see people of all ages and abilities embrace the spirit of kindness, pushing themselves not only for personal achievement but also to make a meaningful difference for others. The Zayed Charity Run further amplified the sense of togetherness that defines this iconic event, a true highlight of our calendar in Abu Dhabi and the UAE.

"As we raise vital funds for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, we are reminded of the lasting legacy of this run – not just in the lives it changes but in the powerful message it sends about what we can accomplish when we stand united. This year’s incredible success reinforces why the Zayed Charity Run remains a beacon of hope, generosity, and inspiration, and I couldn’t be prouder to be part of this unforgettable journey and noble cause."

Aref Al Awani, General Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said the Zayed Charity Run in Abu Dhabi was the starting point for a series of successes for this significant humanitarian sports event, both within the UAE and abroad, on the path of goodness, aiding patients, and contributing to alleviating pain and suffering.

Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees at the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, said: "I sincerely thank the organisers of the Zayed Charity Run for their generous support of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and for choosing us as the beneficiary of this year’s proceeds. This choice highlights their unwavering commitment to humanitarian efforts and their dedication to supporting the MS community in the UAE. I also extend my gratitude to the Authority of Social Contributions – Ma’an for their ongoing support, which bolsters our ability to achieve our mission. Finally, I commend the incredible spirit of the participants, whose enthusiasm and determination brought the inspiring goals of the marathon to life."