ABU DHABI: An Indian expat residing in Sharjah has struck gold, winning an astounding Dh20 million in the Big Ticket Abu Dhabi draw.
Prince Kolassery Sebastian, originally from Kerala, India, was named the grand prize winner in the draw held on Sunday, November 3. His winning ticket, number 197281, was purchased on October 4.
The facilities engineer, who moved to the UAE in 2015 in search of better opportunities, was overwhelmed with emotion upon hearing the news. "I still can't believe it," he said, recalling how friends initially informed him of his win.
The announcement was later confirmed by show hosts Richard and Bouchra, which left him nearly speechless with joy. "We are clueless about what to do with the money," said Prince, still in disbelief over his fortune.
Prince, who has been purchasing Big Ticket raffle tickets for over two years, pooled resources with ten colleagues, each contributing Dh100 to buy the winning ticket. The group also benefitted from a current promotion, which granted them an extra ticket for free. "I have participated in raffles for the past two years and have always chipped in with my nine friends and colleagues. We never bought a ticket alone. In this win, each of us will get Dh2 million, as the amount will be divided equally,” he explained.
Despite the life-changing windfall, Prince says he has yet to fully process his win and is still unsure how he will spend his share.
Prince, who has faced financial struggles due to the ongoing construction of his home in India, plans to use part of the prize to bring his children back to the UAE so they can study locally.
In a stroke of additional fortune, Big Ticket also awarded a Range Rover Velar worth Dh355,000 to UAE national Nasser Alsuwaidi, who held ticket number 015355 in the Dream Car Series.
December Draw
The excitement around Big Ticket Abu Dhabi is set to continue in December, as organisers announced a new grand prize of Dh25 million — the biggest offered this year.
The December draw will also feature daily giveaways of 24-karat gold bars, each weighing 250g.
From November 1 to November 28, participants can enjoy a "buy two, get two" promotion, with tickets automatically entering the Big Win Contest.
Each week, a lucky participant will be selected, with prizes ranging from Dh20,000 to Dh150,000 awarded in the December 3 live draw.
How to Purchase Tickets
Tickets for Big Ticket Abu Dhabi can be purchased online through the official website, or in-person at Zayed International Airport and Al Ain Airport counters.