Today, in the Al Lisaili area of Dubai, the sixth round of the 'UAE Villages Run 2025' series took place as part of the 'Year of the Community 2025' events, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Affairs of the Families of Martyrs, and Chairman of the UAE Balanced Development Council. The races saw the participation of various segments of society, including families, children, and people of determination, embodying the national efforts to achieve comprehensive and balanced development where humanity is at the core of its priorities. The organization of the sixth race today coincided with the UAE's celebrations of the 54th Union Day, during which the Al Lisaili area hosted a series of national events that included artistic performances, heritage activities, and celebrations reflecting the spirit of unity and belonging, adding a festive atmosphere to the race and enhancing the national identity of the event. These events helped introduce participants and visitors to the local heritage of the Al Lisaili area, highlighting authentic cultural aspects, as well as playing a role in promoting tourism in the region and shedding light on its natural and heritage features. Winners of the top positions and distinguished participants in various categories were honored amidst a celebratory atmosphere that reflects the spirit of unity and national cohesion that characterizes the society of the UAE. The award ceremony was attended by Minister of Sport Dr. Ahmed Al-Falasi, CEO of the Emirates Corporation Ahmed Talib Al-Shamsi, Secretary-General of the UAE Balanced Development Council Mohammed Khalifa Bakheet Al-Kaabi, along with a number of officials from councils and authorities in the state. The National Agricultural Center participated in the race's accompanying events through a farmers' market, which featured a variety of local agricultural products from the Al Lisaili area, as well as an exhibition of modern agricultural and environmental practices. The center provided visitors and participants with the opportunity to learn about organic and seasonal products, which are a cornerstone in supporting food security and encouraging local agriculture. The sixth round of the 'UAE Villages Run 2025' was distinguished by its heritage and diverse environmental character, given that the Al Lisaili area boasts a unique natural environment and identity as a center for equestrian sports, camel racing, and traditional desert sports, in addition to hosting several farms, resorts, and training facilities that reflect the depth of Emirati heritage. This offered participants and visitors a distinctive experience that reflects the beauty of the UAE's villages and the richness of their environmental, social, and natural heritage. The 'UAE Villages Run 2025' series presents a significant opportunity to explore the cultural, tourist, and social aspects that abound in the UAE's villages, within the framework of the UAE Balanced Development Council's vision to highlight development factors in various regions of the country and enhance the quality of life in local communities. The race distances varied to suit all categories and included a family run of 1.5 km, a community run of 5 km, and a competitive run of 10 km, allowing for broad participation from different segments of society. The organization of the 'UAE Villages Run' series translates the vision and directives of the wise leadership to enhance balanced development across various regions of the country through community and sports initiatives that contribute to raising the quality of life and encourage adopting a healthy lifestyle, thereby reinforcing the values of community service, volunteering, and a culture of shared responsibility. It is worth noting that the 'UAE Villages Run 2025' series is organized in partnership with the ADNOC Corporation and in cooperation with sports councils, municipalities, and tourism authorities across the country. The races serve as a community and sports platform that highlights the values of belonging and cohesion and contributes to shedding light on the diversity of the country's natural terrains and the richness of its culture and heritage.
