The upcoming Zayed Al Khair and Great Wall Marathon is set to enhance the relationship between the United Arab Emirates and the People’s Republic of China. Scheduled for September 21, 2025, in Beijing, this unique sporting and humanitarian event will witness more than 51,000 runners from around the globe. The race, classified as an “A1” event by the Chinese Athletics Association, will stretch from the Yanqu Lake International Conference and Exhibition Center to the magnificent Mutianyu Great Wall, showcasing some of China’s most notable cultural and scenic landmarks.
A Humanitarian Legacy
The Zayed Al Khair event marks a significant milestone since its inception in Abu Dhabi in 2001. Inspired by the noble humanitarian values established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may his soul rest in peace, the race aims to merge athleticism with charitable causes. Over 22 local editions and various international races held in cities like New York and Cairo have made Zayed Al Khair a renowned global symbol of humanitarian and sporting collaboration. Proceeds from the race support various causes, especially for cancer patients, those with kidney failure, and children’s hospitals.
Cultural and Sporting Collaboration
Hosting this event in China is part of a broader effort to enhance the sporting and cultural collaboration between the UAE and China. In addition to the main 10-kilometer race, a range of community and cultural activities will take place from September 19 to 21. These activities include a 5 km robotics race, a family-run event, and cultural events at the “Emirati House” in Mutianyu, culminating in an awards ceremony at the Great Wall on September 21.
Statements from Organizers
General Mohammed Hilal Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Supreme Organizing Committee of Zayed Al Khair, stated that this first-time event in Beijing represents a unique moment in its history, depicting the deep-rooted ties between the UAE and China. He emphasized that all involved are working as a unified team to ensure the event’s success and uphold its noble message of spreading goodness, peace, and tolerance. He called on Emirati runners to participate, highlighting that the race embodies a sports and humanitarian bridge between the two friendly nations.
Enhancing Diplomatic Relations through Sports
Dr. Ahmed Al Qubaisi, Assistant Secretary-General at the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, noted that the collaboration on the Zayed Al Khair and Great Wall Marathon signifies a pivotal move in strengthening UAE-China relations. He mentioned that sports play a crucial role in promoting soft diplomacy. “We believe in the unique ability of sports to unite people and enhance cultural exchange, particularly in events that blend humanitarian and community messages,” he added.
Preparations Underway
Jiang Yixing, Director of the Sports Office in Huairo, highlighted that this joint event reflects the significance of sports innovation and international cooperation. He assured that preparations are well underway, collaborating with the Huairo government, the Beijing Athletics Association, and the Huairo Sports Office. This year’s event is set to be exceptional in size and organization compared to previous editions since the Huairo Marathon began in 2015.
Logistical arrangements include the deployment of 33 rescue runners for medical support, 220 buses for participant transportation, and 2,600 volunteers, including 430 medical monitoring specialists. The Zayed Al Khair and the Great Wall Marathon promise to create a unique model combining sports and humanitarian messages, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to humanitarian causes and enhancing its presence in the international sporting arena.