Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan Bin Mohamed Al Nahyan, Honorary Chairperson of the Abu Dhabi Centre for Autism, Etihad Airways has hosted its fourth annual fundraising event ‘Walk for a Cause’. 

More than 5,200 participants of all ages gathered at Al Mushrif Central Park in Abu Dhabi on Friday 18 March to take part in the event’s 30 minute walkathon. 

All funds raised at the event will go towards the building a new rehabilitation centre in Abu Dhabi for the Emirates Autism Society, and the refurbishment of a school in India. 

H.H. Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan bin Mohamed Al Nahyan praised Etihad Airways for organising the event, which demonstrates the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting initiatives that bring about social development and the sustainable betterment of regional communities. 

Khaled Al Mehairbi, Senior Vice President of Abu Dhabi Airport Operations and Chairman of the Sports and Social Committee at Etihad Airways, said: "Etihad Airways is committed to providing better care services to autistic children to improve their quality of life. 

"This is part of our commitment to the continued development of our local community and improving public health and increasing awareness of autism. 

"The fun non-competitive walking event has once again brought together the wider community in Abu Dhabi, and we hope we will be able to raise awareness and vital funds to support people in need - both in our home nation and globally.’’ The fun walk was open to all ages, and upon registration participants received a pedometer and a T-shirt with the event logo. 

Athba Ali, a procurement manager at Etihad Airways and a mother of two, said: "I am so happy and proud to be part of Etihad Airways "Walk for A Cause" event. I’m delighted to see that the event has succeeded in bringing everyone together to support such a worthy cause. We had a wonderful time at the event and are very much looking forward to participating at next year’s event." 

Live Bollywood music and dancing ensured attendees were entertained throughout the day whilst Etihad Airways organised a range of activities for the entire family including flight simulator sessions with a cadet pilot and cooking workshops with an inflight chef. Flying nannies were also on hand to supervise and entertain children in the event’s dedicated Kids’ zone. 

At the ‘quiz and win’ competition, attendees had the chance to win a number of prizes including Etihad Airways economy class return tickets, duty free gifts, a one-year family membership for Al Forsan International Sports Resort, a weekend stay at a 5 star hotel, dining vouchers for two people, a gift from Apparel Group and much more. 

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