The Red Sea resort town of El Gouna, along with event organizer The Tri-Factory, launched the fifth edition of the El Gouna Half Marathon on Saturday, Invest-Gate reports.

The 21-kilometer race passed through the Egyptian resort city and attracted some 800 participants from 34 nations including Egypt, the UK, Germany, Italy and the US.

Proceeds will support the Egyptian Red Crescent’s humanitarian efforts for Palestinians, said Mohamed Amer, CEO of El Gouna—which is one of several integrated cities developed by Orascom Development Egypt near Hurghada.

Amer added that sporting events are crucial to developing El Gouna as a regional hub. This year’s marathon route included the new Fanadir Marina residential and commercial district.

Ayman Hakki, founder & CEO of The TriFactory, said measures were taken to ensure the race maintained Egypt’s reputation for hosting international competitions.

El Gouna is home to around 25,000 residents across various residential, commercial, educational and leisure facilities including hotels, marinas and golf courses.

The city emphasizes sustainability through initiatives like a solar plant and waste management.