Emirates Draw: How does the Dh100 million winner Sriram Rajagopalan get his money?

Dubai: Dh100 million — a life-changing prize money that can transform generations. How does Emirates Draw actually pay out such an enormous amount to its first-ever global winner, Sriram Rajagopalan?

As first reported by Gulf News last week, Sriram, a retired engineer from Chennai in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, won the jackpot after entering the draw online. He hit the $27 million (Dh100 million) jackpot on March 16 –just a day after his 56^th birthday and six days after his 88-year-old mother’s.

Interestingly, the former Indian expat from Saudi Arabia said he had selected the winning numbers by tapping on random numbers on his phone screen using a stylus, with his eyes closed.

Since Emirates Draw publicly revealed his identity on May 22, Sriram has made headlines across the world.

When he got the call confirming his win, he said in disbelief: “I cannot believe myself, ma'am! Is it true? Are you from Emirates Draw? I have to pinch myself many times.”

In an emotional letter to the company, the father-of -two wrote: “Emirates Draw, you haven’t just changed my life; you’ve given me a new one. No more sleepless nights filled with worry. No more sacrificing dreams to survive. Because of you, my family will never have to struggle again. Because of you, we have a future.”

Many lottery participants may have since wondered: Has he received the wealth that can be passed down to future generations? How much exactly? And how is such a large amount paid out?

Gulf News reached out to Emirates Draw for details. The company, operated by Tycheros, an Isle of Man-based lottery operator active in 175 countries via online platforms, confirmed: “Emirates Draw confirms that the prize payout is $27 million.”

They had shared photos of the ceremonial cheque handover with Gulf News and revealed his winning numbers: 11, 30, 12, 17, 10, 33, 24.

But is the money given all at once?

Not necessarily. A spokesperson explained: “Given the significance of the prize amount, we consider various factors, including the winner’s safety, security, and personal preferences.”

The payout process depends on the winner’s location, preferred method, and safety considerations.

“Over the years, with nearly 10 Grand Prize winners, Emirates Draw has paid out in multiple secure methods and timelines — always in full compliance with international standards.”

Further details remain confidential out of respect for the winner’s privacy.

Yes, the $27 million MEGA7 jackpot is still available every Sunday for international players.

“Absolutely! The $27 million MEGA7 Jackpot remains available every week on Sunday and we look forward to celebrating the next big winner soon,” said Emirates Draw.

However, UAE residents can no longer participate in Emirates Draw. As of January 2024, the website has been restricted in the UAE. This move followed new regulations by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), which now oversees the newly licensed The UAE Lottery.

The good news for lottery lovers in the UAE is that the country's first authorised national lottery also features a Dh100million grand prize through its  'Lucky Day' game.