Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week Promotes Active Play Through WED Fun Run
Abu Dhabi Hosts Third Edition of WED Fun Run
Abu Dhabi The Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA), in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, organized the third edition of the WED Fun Run at Zayed Sports City Stadium.
The run took place during Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week 2025 and is part of ECA’s World Early Childhood Development (WED) Movement, a global initiative that connects ideas, people, and systems to transform early childhood development knowledge into action. The term “WED,” derived from Arabic, means affection and nurturing care, reflecting the UAE’s approach of integrating innovation with tradition.
More than 500 children and their caregivers participated in the one-kilometer run, which included interactive challenges, games, and entertainment. The event aimed to encourage outdoor movement, social connection, and shared experiences among families.
Activities and Partnerships
The run exemplified the spirit of Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week, which concluded on Sunday, 23 November, after offering over 300 activities in collaboration with more than 65 public, private, and community organizations. Key partners included ADNOC as Energy Partner, PureHealth as Health Partner, and the National Academy for Childhood Development as Vision Partner.
Now in its second year, Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs and Chairman of ECA. The week combines learning, health, and recreation to emphasize the significance of the early years and support Abu Dhabi’s positioning as a family-friendly emirate.
Highlights of the WED Fun Run
This year’s WED Fun Run featured notable moments, including participation by a child as young as three years old, and the return of families who had taken part in previous editions. The event included an expanded activity area and more opportunities for meaningful interaction between parents and children compared to previous years.
Dr. Yousef Al Hammadi, Executive Director, Knowledge & Impact Sector, Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority, said, “The WED Fun Run is a clear example of how movement and play support children’s development in their early years. Physical activity builds motor skills, supports healthy growth, and deepens the bond between a child and their caregivers. We are proud to work with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council to offer joyful and beneficial experiences for children and families.”
Saeed Talal Al Hashemi, Executive Director of Events Sector at the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, stated, “We are pleased to partner with ECA in delivering this year’s WED Fun Run. This event reflects our shared belief that a healthy lifestyle begins in childhood. Creating dedicated spaces for children to play and move supports their wellbeing and helps build a more active and health-conscious community. We are committed to supporting events that bring together sports and families in meaningful ways.”
The run supports the broader objectives of the Year of Community 2025 by encouraging family participation, promoting child wellbeing, and providing experiences that foster a more active and connected generation.