The 2025 Huairou Great Wall Marathon and the Zayed Charity Run concluded today in Beijing, China’s capital. Held over four days from 19 to 22 September, the event attracted a large crowd, welcoming nearly 17,000 participants from 26 countries. Set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most iconic historical landmarks, the marathon seamlessly combined athletic competition with a powerful humanitarian message, fostering stronger connections and promoting cultural exchange.
The program featured races on 20 and 21 September. On the first day, the event included the flagship 10-kilometer race, a 5-kilometer family run, a 1.4-kilometer race for People of Determination, and innovative robotics races at distances of 100 meters, 400 meters, and 1.4-kilometer. Hosted at the Jinyu Xingfa Science & Technology Campus, these events attracted more than a thousand runners and spectators, adding a festive and inclusive atmosphere.
The main marathon day, held on 21 September, began at the Yanqi Lake Convention & Exhibition Center. Runners followed a scenic route through natural landscapes and historic landmarks, finishing at the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. The program included both a full marathon and a half-marathon. The champions of the men’s and women’s marathon categories, from Kenya and Ethiopia respectively, both set new race records.
Mild weather conditions allowed participants to perform at their best, while support stations and medical teams ensured runners’ comfort and safety throughout the course. The event concluded with an awards ceremony to honor the winners.
As part of the event’s commitment to giving back, a donation will be made to Beijing Huairou Hospital. This important gesture reinforces the spirit of cross-cultural cooperation and humanitarian support shared between the event partners.
This year marked the seventh consecutive edition of the Huairou Great Wall Marathon, , organized in cooperation with the People’s Government of Huairou District, the Beijing Athletic Association, and the Huairou Sports Bureau. It was held in partnership with the Zayed Charity Run and supported by the United Arab Emirates Embassy in China. The Huairou Great Wall Marathon, which has been running for 11 years with 7 official editions, holds A1-level certification from the Chinese Athletics Association and is recognized as one of Beijing’s largest sporting events.
Al Bait Al Emarati
As part of the race’s accompanying activities, “Al Bait Al Emarati”—organized by the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Beijing—was held from 19 to 22 September at the Huairou Mutianyu Great Wall Tourist Center. The event attracted around 10,000 visitors daily, who explored authentic Emirati heritage, through folk performances, traditional cuisine, and handicrafts. Seventeen vendors representing diverse business sectors in the UAE showcased a wide range of products, foods, beverages, and artisanal goods. The fair highlighted the UAE role as a bridge of communication and cultural exchange between peoples.
The Humanitarian Dimension
Since its inception in 2001, the Zayed Charity Run has embodied a noble humanitarian mission in honor of the late His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may his soul rest in peace. For over two decades, the run has supported health and humanitarian initiatives worldwide.
His Excellency Hussain Al Hammadi, UAE Ambassador to China, stated: “What we have witnessed over these days was more than a sporting event; it was a living embodiment of Zayed’s values of giving and cooperation. Seeing thousands of runners from around the world gather at the Great Wall of China—one of the humanity’s most iconic landmarks—sends a clear message that sport can build bridges and strengthen friendships among people. In the UAE, we believe that charitable and cultural initiatives can go hand in hand with sport to promote stability, sustainable development, and a brighter future for all.”
His Excellency Lieutenant General Mohamed Helal Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Zayed Charity Run, said: “Since its founding in 2001, the Zayed Charity Run has carried the responsibility of spreading a humanitarian message that transcends borders. Today, we saw that message realized on Chinese soil in its finest form. The tremendous success of the Beijing edition reflects the passion and dedication of participants and spectators alike and affirms that Zayed’s legacy of giving will continue to inspire the world. We will persist in our efforts to expand the Run globally, ensuring it remains a platform for solidarity and hope.”
A Memorable Finale
The successful execution of the marathon and the run received widespread praise from both participants and spectators . Many highlighted the high level of organization, attention to detail, and strong commitment to comfort and safety. International runners described competing on the Great Wall of China as a unique, unforgettable experience—an athletic challenge enriched by the majesty of one of humanity’s greatest landmarks.
Visitors also commended the accompanying “Al Bait Al Emarati”, which provided a comprehensive showcase of the UAE’s culture and heritage, and was widely regarded as a highlight that enriched the spirit of cultural exchange.
Launched in 2001 in Abu Dhabi, the Zayed Charity Run was inspired by the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan to extend generosity and reinforce human values within society. What began as a local initiative has grown into a celebrated international movement, uniting communities through sport, philanthropy and cultural exchange.
Following its early success in the UAE, the Zayed Charity Run expanded internationally in 2005 with its first edition in New York, and in 2014, it made its debut in Cairo. Since then, it has become a fixture in some of the world’s most prominent cities.
To date, the Zayed Charity Run has attracted over 613,000 participants and raised more than USD 173 million for humanitarian causes. These funds have supported treatment of patients with chronic illnesses such as kidney disease, cancer, and heart conditions; contributed to the development of children’s hospitals; advanced medical research; and fostered health awareness globally. By combining its charitable mission with the promotion of healthy lifestyles, the Run has become a multidimensional platform for positive change.
In its current 2025–2026 season, the Zayed Charity Run is undertaking the most significant expansion in its history, spanning six major international stops: the People’s Republic of China, the Federative Republic of Brazil, the United Arab Emirates, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the United States of America, and the Republic of Hungary. For the first time, the Run covers three continents: Asia, South America, and Europe – building on the legacy of the Abu Dhabi, New York, and Cairo editions.
