UAE-based startup Jade wins Zayed Sustainability Prize 2026 for AI platform supporting neurodivergent children

A UAE-based technology company, Jade, has won the Zayed Sustainability Prize 2026 in the Health category for its groundbreaking AI-powered platform designed to support the early detection and development of neurodivergent children.

The award was presented on January 13, 2026, during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), recognizing innovations that deliver real-world impact and scalable solutions to global challenges.

AI, play and early intervention

Originally founded in Brazil and now headquartered in the UAE, Jade has developed a game-based digital platform that combines artificial intelligence, eye-tracking technology, and play-based assessments. The system screens children for neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder and ADHD in a non-invasive, engaging way.

As children interact with the games, the platform gathers cognitive and behavioral data, allowing professionals to identify learning differences, attention challenges, and developmental patterns. This data enables personalized intervention plans, helping educators and clinicians act earlier and more effectively.

Global impact at scale

Jade’s platform has already demonstrated significant reach and results:

• More than 200,000 children reached across 179 countries

• Adopted by 450–650 schools, clinics and institutions worldwide

• Recorded a 42% improvement rate when professionals used its insights to tailor support strategies

These outcomes underline the growing role of AI-driven tools in transforming early childhood healthcare and inclusive education.

$1 million boost to scale impact

As the Health category winner, Jade received $1 million from the Zayed Sustainability Prize to expand its global footprint. Founder and CEO Ronaldo Lima Cohin Ribeiro, who was inspired to build the platform after his own son was diagnosed with autism, said the goal is to reach five million children within the next five years.

About the Zayed Sustainability Prize 2026

Jade was one of 11 winners recognized this year across categories including Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action, and Global High Schools. The prize, named after the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, celebrates innovations that combine technology, sustainability, and humanitarian impact.

With this win, Jade reinforces the UAE’s growing reputation as a global hub for healthtech innovation, inclusive technology, and AI-driven social impact.