‘I thought it was a prank’: Indian banker in Dubai wins Big Ticket e-draw

Abu Dhabi: Indian and Bangladeshi expats are among the winners of the latest Big Ticket weekly e-draw held in Abu Dhabi. As many as five individuals are taking home Dh50,000 each in the final week of the May promotion.

Even now, it feels surreal, says Dubai banker

Mustafa Mohammed, a 37-year-old banker from India, who has been living in Dubai with his family for the past 14 years, has been participating in Big Ticket draws for the last four years. Every month, he purchases tickets as part of a group of six close friends.

“When I first received the call, I genuinely thought it was a prank. Even now, it feels surreal, but I’m incredibly grateful and happy.”

While there are no immediate plans for the cash prize, he said that the group has yet to sit down and decide together. However, he is certain about one thing: “We’ll definitely continue buying tickets and aim for the grand prize.”

Meanwhile, Praful Dhar, another Indian expat, won with ticket number 402897 and was delighted to learn of his win.

Supermarket employee is overjoyed

Eyasin Arafat Mohammed Nurul Islam, a 45-year-old supermarket employee from Bangladesh, has been living in Dubai for the past 15 years. He first heard about Big Ticket three years ago and has been purchasing tickets every month as part of a group of 14 friends ever since.

“I was overjoyed when I received the winning call. Our plan is to divide the prize among all group members. And yes, we will definitely continue purchasing Big Ticket entries.”

Meanwhile, Mohammed Ibrahim Shiraj Miah from Bangladesh won with ticket number 102594 and was overjoyed upon hearing the news.

Lebanese expat trying his luck for 8 years

David El Hasrouty, a 45-year-old real estate business owner originally from Lebanon and a long-time resident of Dubai for the past 20 years, has been participating in Big Ticket draws for the last eight years. Purchasing tickets on his own, he has remained a loyal customer ever since first discovering Big Ticket.

“I was excited. I even told Richard that I’ll be waiting for his next call on June 3.”

With plans to use his winnings to pay off some outstanding credit loans, he also said that he will continue participating in future draws.

“If you buy, you have a chance to win. But if you don’t, then your chance is zero. So go ahead - participate and try your luck,” El Hasrouty added.