Rio de janeiro: The Zayed Charity Run will launch tomorrow, marking its second global stop for the 2025-2026 season in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This event is the first time the run has been hosted in South America, drawing thousands of runners from both within Brazil and abroad. Among the participants are approximately 200 individuals from the UAE, along with more than 250 international delegations.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Higher Organising Committee of the Zayed Charity Run has confirmed that all preparations have been finalized, ensuring the event is conducted at a high level of readiness. This humanitarian sporting event reflects the enduring legacy of the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and embodies his message of generosity and solidarity among peoples.
The race will feature both 5 km and 10 km routes. Additionally, interactive activities and events have been organized for the public and athletes, highlighting the strong interest generated by the run among the Brazilian community and international media. More than 250 international delegations have converged on Rio to partake in this event, which merges sport with a humanitarian spirit, reinforcing the values of giving and unity.
Proceeds from this edition of the run will be donated to Rio Solidario, a prominent non-profit institution in Brazil. The organization supports vulnerable children, women, and families, and promotes social inclusion, aligning with the mission of the Zayed Charity Run to use sport as a vehicle for hope and positive change.
The Rio edition represents a significant milestone in the global journey of the run, which began in Abu Dhabi in 2001. Over the years, it has grown into a worldwide initiative that unites communities under the values of sport and charity. Today, the Zayed Charity Run is recognized as ‘the kindest run in the world,’ making a direct and lasting impact on the societies that host it.
The 2025-2026 Zayed Charity Run is backed by Emirates Red Crescent, Al Habtoor Group, and NORINCO.
