Addis Ababa, May 3, 2026 (FMC) — The Sheikh Zayed 5km Charity Run was held in Addis Ababa on Sunday morning, marking the first time Ethiopia has hosted the international event.
The race took place at Meskel Square, which served as both the start and finish point for the 5-kilometer course in the capital.
The event brought together participants from different segments of society, including renowned athletes, members of the public, children, influential individuals, and foreign nationals, reflecting broad-based participation.
It was organized by the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Ethiopia in collaboration with Ethiopia’s Ministry of Culture and Sports and the Great Ethiopian Run.
According to Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie, the Sheikh Zayed 5km Charity Run has previously been hosted in major cities including Abu Dhabi, Cairo, India, China, and the United States, with Addis Ababa now joining the global series for the first time.
She noted that hosting the event in Ethiopia represents an important milestone for the capital and expressed appreciation for Addis Ababa being selected as a host city for the international charity run.
The race was held in recognition of the charitable legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the late founding President of the United Arab Emirates.