An Indian expat in Dubai was on Sunday named as the winner of the Dh15 million grand prize in the Big-Ticket Draw, which is based in Abu Dhabi.
Mohammed Shereef, who works in Business Bay as a procurement officer, has been purchasing Big Tickets online for more than a year. He bought his winning ticket with 20 of his colleagues.
When asked about his plans, Shereef said: “I hope to fly in my family from India and start my own business. I also want to donate a portion to charity.”
Shereef found out about his win while spending the weekend in Dubai’s Karama district. Shereef said he and his friends have been waiting for the momentous news as they have been regularly participating in the draw for the past 10 years. Twenty of them who live in the same apartment – some work as taxi drivers and others as blue-collar workers – regularly contribute to buying a ticket and now they will be sharing at least Dh750,000 each.
“Thanks to God,” Shereef can be heard on the phone. “I’m now a millionaire! I just won the Big Ticket!” he added, in between sobs during the live interview. The moment of victory was filled with disbelief and overwhelming joy for Shereef, who, caught off guard during the live interview, initially struggled to comprehend the magnitude of their win. This emotional reaction captured the hearts of many, illustrating the profound impact such a win can have on individuals’ lives, especially for those who have patiently awaited their moment of luck.
Shereef will be attending the next draw for the awarding ceremony. As Shereef and his friends embark on this new chapter, their story will undoubtedly encourage others to dream big and believe in the possibility of a life-altering win.
