First-time lucky: Dubai tailor wins Dh20 million Big Ticket jackpot – ‘I bought it on my own’

Abu Dhabi: Sabuj Miah Amir Hossain Dewan still can’t believe his luck.

The 36-year-old Bangladeshi expat, who has quietly stitched clothes for others for nearly two decades in Dubai, is now the latest Big Ticket millionaire and he did it on his very first try.

Dewan struck gold in Series 277 of the Big Ticket draw, winning the Dh20 million jackpot with ticket number 194560, which he purchased on July 29 just days before the grand prize draw.

“I still don't believe it,” he said of the unexpected windfall.

“I bought the ticket just a few days ago.”

Having lived alone in Dubai for the past 18 years while his family remains back home in Bangladesh, Dewan has worked hard to support his loved ones. And now, in a life-changing twist, he stands to give them a future beyond anything he imagined.

Luck strikes on debut

And the win? All his.

He bought the ticket solo, without any groups or shared stake.

“This was my first time purchasing a ticket, and I bought it on my own,” the first-time participant revealed.

His decision to take a chance was spontaneous – sparked by conversations with friends and a bit of curiosity.

“I often heard about Big Ticket from friends around me. But they — 10 to 20 people — buy together. So, I thought, why not take a chance? Once, I went to visit a customer in Abu Dhabi who lives near the airport. I asked a driver where I could buy Big Ticket. I was told it’s inside the airport,” he said, recalling how he reached the Big Ticket store.

From modest salary to millionaire

However, he had second thoughts about making the purchase.

“I was told a ticket costs Dh500, and I could get four tickets for Dh1,000.”

Earning a modest salary, Dewan was hesitant, but ultimately decided to try his luck. “So, I bought only one ticket. I’m a millionaire now.”

The moment he learned of his win was overwhelming.

“I’m a humble tailor earning a modest salary, so you can imagine the emotions running through me right now. This win has the potential to completely transform my family’s future,” he said, referring to his wife and children back in Bangladesh.

‘May consider purchasing again’

Still processing the news, Dewan says he hasn’t yet made concrete plans.

“I haven’t made any decisions yet about how I’ll use the prize money, I want to speak with my family first. I may consider purchasing from Big Ticket again in the future, but for now, I’m simply grateful and content with this incredible win.”

For now, Dewan awaits the day the money hits his bank account to truly believe he is a millionaire. “It’s unbelievable,” he added.