Abu Dhabi Big Ticket: Meet the UAE ex-military officer who just won Dh20 million

Abu Dhabi: Mubarak Gharib Rashed Salem AlDhaheri, an Emirati man in his 50s, is overjoyed and grateful to the Almighty for an unexpected windfall this festive season, winning the Abu Dhabi Big Ticket June 2025 jackpot.

AlDhaheri, a retired military officer, won Dh20 million in the latest draw series 275 held on June 3.

“It was completely unexpected but a good, unexpected surprise,” said AlDhaheri.

The Emirati national, who resides in the ‘Garden City’ of Al Ain, feels deeply fortunate to have spent his entire life in the UAE, surrounded by the love of his family and the comfort of home.

It was two years ago, while passing through Al Ain Airport, that he first came across the Big Ticket. Since then, he has been purchasing tickets regularly either monthly or every other month as a small hobby.

AlDhaheri bought the winning ticket, number 337126, on May 27. Unlike many winners who pool money with others, he purchased this ticket entirely on his own.

“No, I bought this ticket alone,” he said, noting that he never expected to win the grand prize.

Now, he plans to invest wisely, buy a new home for his family, and contribute to charitable causes. AlDhaheri also noted that he intends to continue buying Big Tickets, hopeful for more wins in the future.

“Never give up. A win is just a ticket away,” he said, expressing his gratitude to the organisers, including those working behind the scenes.

Meanwhile, show hosts Richard and Bouchra were visibly thrilled to see an Emirati national take home the grand prize. In a twist of fate, Thajudeen Aliyar Kunju, last month’s grand prize winner, drew AlDhaheri’s winning ticket.

“We are 16 members, but we will be splitting the Dh25 million grand prize into 17 shares, with one portion going to charity,” Kunju said after attending the show.