ABU DHABI 24 February 2019: Dr. Khaled Jamal Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of the Emirates Centre for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR), is continuing in his Abu Dhabi-Makkah Run Initiative.
After 21 days, Dr. Khaled is now 670km from Makkah, whch is across the Arabian Peninsula almost near the Red Sea Coast.
On Wednesday 20th February, Prof. Jamal Sanad Al Suwaidi, Director General of ECSSR, visited his son, Dr. Khaled, in Rowaidah. He expressed pride in what his son has achieved, and wished him the best in achieving his goal. He added that his son has the will and determination to face this unprecedented challenge.
Major Abdulrahman Dheifullah Al Osiami, Head of Highway Security Forces Centre in Rowaidah, received Prof. Jamal, and Dr. Khaled, in a gesture that reflects the appreciation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for this initiative, and the strength of relations between the two countries and their people, said Wam.
Feb 1 Start
Dr. Khaled started the Abu Dhabi-Makkah Run on 1st February, 2019, from Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. In a feat never-before attempted, he will travel 2,070km in 38 days of continuous running and walking. Dr. Khaled completed 345km in the UAE’s territories, before passing the Albatha Border Crossing Post into Saudi Arabia, on his way to Makkah.
Dr. Khaled thanked the Saudi authorities for the assistance he has received since entering the Kingdom, and confirmed the main goal of the challenge is to express his appreciation for the strong ties between the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
In a tribute to his father, Dr. Khaled added that his unshakeable determination to complete the challenge comes from Prof. Jamal Al Suwaidi. Dr. Khaled also told how Makkah, with its deep spiritual and religious connotations, is a fitting end to his challenge, and is the best motivation for him to overcome any difficulties he might face.
A website for the initiative has been launched (www.Khaledalsuwaidi.com), and it includes all the latest updates, information and activities from the run, which can be followed daily.
