In a major boost to Abu Dhabi’s innovation ecosystem, Jade Autism, a startup backed by Hub71, has won the Zayed Sustainability Prize in the Health category, securing a $1 million (AED 3.67 million) award to accelerate its mission of advancing neurodiverse care through artificial intelligence.
The announcement was made during a high-profile ceremony attended by UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, highlighting the global significance of the award and the UAE’s growing role in health innovation.
Pioneering AI-Driven Neurodiverse Care
Jade Autism was recognised for its cutting-edge platform that combines gamification and AI to support the early detection and monitoring of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and ADHD. By capturing cognitive data during gameplay, the platform converts behavioural insights into detailed, actionable reports for therapists and educators.
These insights enable earlier diagnosis, personalised therapy plans, and more targeted educational interventions—addressing long-standing gaps in neurodevelopmental care worldwide.
The win further underscores the global reach of Hub71-supported startups. Since joining Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem, Jade Autism has expanded rapidly and now supports nearly 200,000 children across more than 170 countries.
From Personal Purpose to Global Impact
Founded by Ronaldo Lima Cohin Ribeiro, Jade Autism was inspired by his personal experience as a parent to his autistic son, Lucas.
“We wanted to build technology that could truly help neurodivergent children,” Ribeiro said while accepting the award alongside his son. “During play, we collect cognitive data that allows us to understand where a child is struggling—whether it’s reading, writing, or attention.”
Ribeiro described the Zayed Sustainability Prize as both recognition and responsibility. “You win an award, but you also win a mission. Our mission now is to scale what we are doing and reach many more children around the world.”
Scaled in Abu Dhabi, Deployed Globally
Jade Autism’s journey reflects Abu Dhabi’s role as a launchpad for impact-driven health technology. After winning the Supernova Challenge at GITEX Future Stars, the Brazilian-founded startup relocated its headquarters to Abu Dhabi and joined Hub71.
Leveraging Hub71’s incentive programmes, access to capital, and strategic partnerships, Jade Autism has scaled across multiple international markets. Today, its platform is used in over 600 schools worldwide, including institutions in the UAE, Brazil, the UK, and Portugal.
A strong focus on partnerships with public schools and government entities has enabled the company to reach underserved communities—closely aligning with the Zayed Sustainability Prize’s emphasis on inclusive and sustainable impact.
About the Zayed Sustainability Prize
Established in 2008, the Zayed Sustainability Prize honours the legacy of the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The award recognises organisations and high schools delivering innovative, impactful, and scalable solutions across health, food, energy, water, and climate action.
