Indian, Bangladeshi expats win in Big Ticket’s 'Big Win' contest

Abu Dhabi: Four lucky expats, including three based in the UAE, have won Big Ticket’s 'Big Win' contest, pocketing a total of Dh370,000.

Tapan Das, a barber, bagged Dh100,000 and now hopes to start his own business. The 30-year-old Bangladeshi expat has been living in the UAE for the past six years and has been purchasing Big Ticket entries with a group of 20 friends.

“It’s an incredible feeling. I immediately sent money back home to support my family. Now, I plan to start my own business soon. This win has opened the door for me to pursue this long-time dream.”

Das plans to continue purchasing Big Ticket entries.

“You should always try your luck. Buying a ticket doesn’t guarantee a win, but it gives you the chance. Keep believing, and maybe your time will come too,” Das said.

3 Indian expats win

Meanwhile, Allwyn Michael, an Indian expat living in Qatar, won Dh150,000. He purchased his winning ticket, number 073786, online and is overjoyed by his incredible luck.

Separately, two Indian expats based in Abu Dhabi each pocketed Dh60,000.

Sandeep Thazhayil, a 33-year-old project HSE Manager who has been living in Abu Dhabi for the past 10 years, and 15 of his friends had all bought Big Ticket entries together. He plans to share the winnings with them and use part of the money to pay off his financial debts.

Family life

“I’m using my share of the prize to bring my wife and daughter to the UAE so we can enjoy our family life together. It’s wonderful to finally have them here after all these years. This win has given me the chance to improve my family’s future,” Thazhayil said, adding that he plans to continue buying tickets each month.

Sharafudheen Sharaf, a 36-year-old private driver from Kerala who has been living in Abu Dhabi for the past five years, will share his winning ticket with a group of 15 people.

Don't lose hope

“I’m using my share of the prize to buy whatever my daughter wants. It feels amazing to be able to provide for her. This win has motivated me to keep participating and stay hopeful for the future,” Sharaf said and in his message to others noted: “Don’t lose hope, one day it might be your turn.”

This February, one lucky ticket holder will walk away with a grand prize of Dh20 million. In addition to the grand prize, every week, two lucky winners will have the opportunity to win Dh250,000 in weekly e-draws. Tickets are available on the official website or at counters located in Zayed International Airport and Al Ain Airport.