DUBAI – Anil Kumar Bolla, a 29-year-old Indian expat living in Abu Dhabi, has won the UAE Lottery’s first-ever Dh100 million (approximately ₹240 crore) jackpot.
Bolla, who hails from Andhra Pradesh, said he picked the winning number based on his mother’s birthday, a gesture that turned out to be the most significant decision of his life.
“I chose my mother’s birthday as the lottery number,” Bolla shared after the draw, expressing disbelief and gratitude over his record-breaking win.
“I haven’t done any magic or something, so I just chose the Easy Pick…. The last number is very special. It’s my mum’s birthday,” he said.
According to Big Ticket Abu Dhabi, the lottery organizer, this was the largest prize ever awarded in the history of the UAE draw. Bolla’s victory has drawn widespread attention across the Indian diaspora, many of whom have celebrated his success story as an inspiration.
Bolla said he plans to use the winnings responsibly, focusing on helping his family and supporting community causes back home in India. “This is a blessing not just for me, but for everyone I can now help,” he said.
“I believe that everything happens for a reason. I suggest each and every player to keep playing, and for sure, one day luck will come to you.” he said.
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The Dh100 million jackpot, part of the Big Ticket Series 266, was drawn on October 28, 2025, in Abu Dhabi. Organizers confirmed that this milestone prize marks the beginning of a new era of mega draws in the UAE, aiming to attract participants from across the region.
Anil Kumar Bolla joins a growing list of Indian expatriates who have struck it rich through UAE-based lotteries many of whom credit faith, family.