DUBAI: Five lucky participants have each won Dh150,000 in this week’s Big Ticket electronic draw, with winners hailing from the UAE, Kuwait, and Oman.
Among them is a Filipina nurse from Ras Al Khaimah and several Indian nationals who have shared their stories of joy, disbelief, and plans for the prize money.
The draw, which continues to be a highlight for hopefuls across the region, is also offering additional grand prizes and promotional deals throughout April.
Who are the winners?
Antonette Mohamed, a 52-year-old nurse originally from the Philippines, has been residing in Ras Al Khaimah since 1997. She has been purchasing Big Ticket entries monthly since the Covid-19 pandemic began, forming a syndicate with 17 close friends. Her commitment to the draw was inspired by her late husband, who was a regular Big Ticket buyer.
"My husband was the one who used to purchase Big Tickets regularly,” she said. “After he passed away, I felt it was only right to continue his legacy.” Antonette recalled waking up to a voice message announcing her win, initially thinking it was a scam until she verified it through the official website.
“I’m really, really happy — it still hasn’t sunk in,” she added. True to her group approach, she plans to divide the winnings among her friends.
Joining Antonette in this week’s winners’ circle is 27-year-old Indian IT professional Jishnu Thottingal Kunjankutty, who has been working in Abu Dhabi for five years. Along with a group of 10 friends, he has been consistently purchasing tickets every month for the past year.
"I'm shocked and happy at the same time," said Jishnu. “Like many others, I initially thought it was a fake call — but then I recognised Richard’s voice and realised it was true.” He also plans to continue participating and share the winnings with his group.
Samsudhin Hosdurg, a 55-year-old driver from Kerala who has been working in Kuwait for two decades, is another fortunate winner. A loyal customer for five years, Samsudhin started buying tickets with friends but has recently been entering solo.
“I had just stepped out of the house when my family called to tell me I had won the e-draw,” he shared. “I quickly checked the website to confirm — and it was true. I had won. I’m so happy right now.” Samsudhin plans to use part of the prize money to clear debts, with future plans yet undecided.
Also among the week’s winners are Nazer Vatta Parambil, a UAE-based Indian who purchased his ticket in-store (ticket number 274-109247), and Anish Kumar Thekkey, an Omani resident who bought his winning ticket online (ticket number 274-059479).
Big Ticket: April draw
Big Ticket’s April edition offers participants a range of opportunities to win, including the Dh25 million grand prize, weekly Dh150,000 cash prizes for five winners, and luxury cars. The promotion includes a Buy 2 Get 2 Free ticket offer throughout the month.
Every ticket purchased in April qualifies for the weekly e-draws, with winners announced every Thursday. Additionally, a special "big win" contest gives four selected participants the chance to win guaranteed cash prizes ranging from Dh20,000 to Dh150,000 at the live draw event on 3 May. Participants must purchase two or more cash tickets in a single transaction between 1 and 24 April to qualify, with finalists revealed on 1 May.
Luxury car enthusiasts also have a reason to celebrate: a Range Rover Velar will be awarded on 3 May, followed by the giveaway of a BMW M440i on 3 June.
Tickets can be purchased online or at counters located in Zayed International Airport and Al Ain Airport.