'Relay For Life' starts on Jan.25 at American University of Sharjah

The fourth Middle East edition of Relay For Life — the region’s largest fundraising event dedicated to supporting cancer patients and survivors — begins on Saturday at the American University of Sharjah.

Under the powerful theme of “Worth Living,” the event invites individuals and families from across the globe to participate in a 24-hour event of awareness activities and diverse entertainment for all ages.

Organised every two years by the Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) — a non-profit organisation based in Sharjah — in partnership with the American Cancer Society, Relay For Life aims to raise awareness about cancer, provide vital support to patients, honour survivors, and remember those who have passed. Registration for the event is free and open to all through the following website: https://joinrfl.focp.ae.

Opening ceremony

The 24-hour event begins at 4pm on Saturday, January 25, and runs until 4pm on Sunday, January 26, starting with an official opening ceremony held on the main stage followed by an inaugural lap led by cancer survivors and caregivers.

Families from across the world too take part in the event.

The ceremony will also include interactive activities, live performances, and Q&A games with prizes hosted by the Sharjah Police.

Luminaria ceremony

One of the most poignant moments of the event is the Luminaria Ceremony, where participants are invited to light candles on the main stage and along the track to honour cancer survivors and remember loved ones lost to the disease.

Themed track laps

Throughout the event, participants will be able to enjoy themed laps, including the ‘Relaxed Lap,’ which offers a calm setting for socialising, and the ‘Glow Lap,’ featuring glowing sticks and illuminated bracelets for a vibrant, festive atmosphere. Other highlights include the ‘Zumba Lap,’ combining music and movement, and the high-energy ‘Noise Maker Lap’ with drums and cheering.

Interactive workshops for adults and children

A variety of workshops will also engage both adults and children, with the former participating in crafting accessories, painting, and creating mosaic designs on glass and pottery.

For younger attendees, workshops include crafts, face painting, and hair braiding.

Meanwhile, the ‘Kids’ Corner’ will offer a safe space for toddlers and children, complete with a bouncy castle and other age-appropriate activities.

Free registration

Reflecting FOCP's belief in the importance of collaboration, solidarity, and societal and institutional integration, registration for Relay for Life 2025 is free and open to all members of the community, including families, cancer survivors, caregivers, government institutions, private companies, schools, universities, health professionals, and social media influencers.

Fundraising activities

Relay For Life also provides volunteers with the opportunity to raise funds by selling products at designated tents during the event. All proceeds will support FOCP’s efforts to assist cancer patients on their treatment journeys. Donations can also be made through the official website at https://www.focp.ae/ .