📸 Photo Credit: World Governments Summit via X @WorldGovSummit
Dubai, UAE: Hyderabad-based innovators Zain Ahmed Samdani and Faria Zubair have brought international recognition to India by securing the Gold Award at the Global Best M-Gov Award 2025. The prestigious honor was presented during the World Government Summit (WGS) in Dubai on February 11, marking a significant achievement in assistive technology and rehabilitation solutions.
The award was conferred by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, in the presence of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The siblings were recognized for their pioneering work on ExoHeal, an innovative modular exoskeletal hand rehabilitation device designed to aid stroke and paralyzed patients.
ExoHeal: A Breakthrough in Neurorehabilitation
Developed by the duo under their startup V-Bionic, ExoHeal is an AI-powered robotic glove that utilizes machine learning algorithms to accelerate therapy by 50%. The device also provides personalized treatment plans and gamified experiences, keeping patients engaged throughout their recovery. A key feature of ExoHeal is its remote monitoring system, allowing healthcare professionals to track patient progress in real time. The innovation is not only effective but also more affordable than existing alternatives, significantly reducing recovery time for patients in need.
Zain, the founder of V-Bionic, was inspired to develop ExoHeal in 2015 after witnessing his maternal uncle struggle with paralysis following a stroke. Determined to make robotic rehabilitation more accessible, he embarked on a mission to transform the field through cutting-edge technology. The 24-year-old entrepreneur, born in Hyderabad and raised in Saudi Arabia, is currently pursuing Robotics and Intelligent Systems at Constructor University (formerly Jacobs International University) in Germany. His sister, Faria Zubair, serves as the Head of Design for V-Bionic while simultaneously pursuing a double degree in BBA Online from the University of The People (California) and Arts & English Literature from St. George’s Degree and PG College in Hyderabad, Telangana.
A Legacy of Innovation and Global Recognition
The Global Best M-Gov Award 2025 is not the first international accolade for Zain and his team. In May 2022, V-Bionic won Microsoft’s 2022 Imagine Cup World Championship, solidifying its place as a leader in assistive technology. Later that year, Zain was honored with the Diana Award 2022, one of the highest accolades recognizing young individuals making a significant impact on society through technology.
Expressing his gratitude, Zain stated, “It’s such an honor to receive this award. This achievement is a huge step in realizing our vision to help paralyzed patients access affordable and faster rehabilitation.”
With their latest triumph at the World Government Summit, Zain and Faria continue to make strides in transforming the future of healthcare through innovation and accessibility.
