Jets draw UAE flag over Abu Dhabi as Run for the Nation unites over 25,000
Inclusive race route brings together diverse communities across city streets in unity
ABU DHABI – The skies above Abu Dhabi were illuminated in the colours of the UAE flag on Saturday morning as jets from the Fursan Al Emarat aerobatic team opened the inaugural Run for the Nation with a striking aerial display.
The formation flyover above Wahat Al Karama drew national attention as the jets traced the flag across the sky, marking the beginning of a large-scale community event.
More than 25,000 participants took part in the run, transforming the capital into a moving expression of unity, pride, and collective purpose. The event combined sport, symbolism, and civic engagement in one of the largest public gatherings of its kind in the city.
Sky formation
The aerial showcase by the national aerobatic team set the tone for the event, with precision manoeuvres forming the UAE flag above one of Abu Dhabi’s most significant national landmarks. Wahat Al Karama served as the starting point for the “Hassantak Ya Watan” initiative, which carried a message of shared national responsibility and awareness. The route concluded at Erth Abu Dhabi Hotel, formerly the Armed Forces Officers Club, symbolically linking heritage and modern civic identity across the capital.
The flyover was widely visible across the surrounding areas, drawing attention from early morning crowds assembled for the run and marking the event as both ceremonial and participatory in nature.
Run for the Nation
The race route brought together participants from all segments of society, including senior citizens, youth, families, professional runners, and People of Determination.
With no entry fee and no required pace, the event was designed to maximise inclusivity and encourage broad participation.
Road closures were implemented from 5am, with the Abu Dhabi Integrated Transport Centre maintaining traffic restrictions until 10am to ensure safety and smooth coordination along the route.
Officials highlighted the significance of the turnout, noting that the strong participation reflected a deep-rooted sense of national unity and engagement. The scale of involvement underscored the growing popularity of community-led sporting initiatives across the emirate.
At the conclusion of the run, participants and families gathered at a community village set up at Erth Abu Dhabi, which featured entertainment programmes, interactive activities, and family-friendly initiatives. The atmosphere combined celebration and recreation, extending the experience beyond the race itself.
The Run for the Nation was organised by the Zayed Charity Run Higher Organising Committee in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, with support from multiple public and private partners including International Golden Group, Aldar, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, Al Ain Water, Burjeel Holdings, Arabian Radio Network, Wahat Al Karama, and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre.