Winning a jackpot can completely change lives, offering financial security or opening doors to new opportunities like investments, giving back, and pursuing passions.
From Employee to Entrepreneur
For Dubai resident Vinod CK, life took an incredible turn on November 30, 2014, when he won $1 million (Dh3.67 million) in the Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire raffle. Originally from Kerala, Vinod came to the UAE in 1996 and worked his way up from a procurement assistant to a manager.
Vinod shared how his Filipino colleague initiated a group to pool funds for raffle tickets. “We’d contribute Dh100 or Dh200, and on that lucky day, the prize was split among 10 people, each receiving Dh300,640. Back then, tickets weren’t available online, so we’d physically go to a hotel in Jumeirah to buy them.”
The win gave him the confidence to explore entrepreneurship. When his company faced redundancies, he partnered in a marine automation business and invested in mutual funds and real estate in India. “I’ve built my income through investments and my company,” he said.
Vinod also believed in giving back. “Sharing your blessings is important,” he noted, as he allocated part of his winnings to charity. Despite his win, he still buys raffle tickets, spending Dh500 to Dh1,000 monthly. “I’ve probably spent Dh100,000 on lotteries, but it’s not about the money—it’s the positive energy and confidence it brings.”
From Labourer to Business Owner
For Shahid Mahmood, a Pakistani expatriate, life changed dramatically in October 2021 when he won Dh15 million in the Big Ticket Draw. Shahid’s journey from a blue-collar worker to an entrepreneur is nothing short of inspiring.
After moving to the UAE in 2007, he worked as a labourer and became a supervisor by 2011. Over 12 years, he spent Dh70,000 on tickets, and his persistence finally paid off. “I’m glad I didn’t give up,” he said.
His winnings allowed him to start three businesses: a technical services company, a document-clearing firm, and a transport company. Shahid also purchased a Lexus RX 450 for Dh292,000 and began constructing a building named Emirates Tower in Pakistan to honour the UAE.
Generosity remains central to Shahid’s journey. “I’ve donated to charity and helped my hometown. Giving back is essential,” he said. Shahid continues participating in raffles, aiming to become the first person to win Big Ticket twice.
Investing in the Future
In September 2021, Mir, a 37-year-old sales manager, won Dh1 million in the Mahzooz draw. He purchased the winning ticket just hours before the announcement, setting his life on a new path.
“This win has been a blessing,” Mir said. “It’s given me security and the confidence to dream bigger.” He invested his prize in properties and businesses in Oman and India, focusing on long-term growth. “The returns are modest now, but they’ll grow significantly as the businesses mature,” he explained.
Mir also took the opportunity to advance his career, joining a new company while continuing to prioritize investments. “This prize has allowed me to explore new possibilities and create a brighter future,” he added.
