‘I Want To Do Something Big’: Indian Expat Wins Dh100 Million UAE Lottery, Dedicates Win To Mother

Last Updated:October 28, 2025, 07:06 IST

Anilkumar Bolla's biggest wish is to bring his family to the UAE so they can live together.

Anilkumar Bolla, an Indian expat becomes first Dh100 million UAE lottery winner

Anilkumar Bolla, a 29-year-old Indian expatriate living in Abu Dhabi, has made history by winning the UAE Lottery’s biggest-ever jackpot, a staggering Dh100 million. The win came during the 23rd Lucky Day Draw held on 18 October, where Bolla defied odds of over 8.8 million to one.

In a video released by The UAE Lottery on Monday, his full name was revealed as Anilkumar Bolla Madhavarao Bolla, quelling speculation about his origins. Having lived in the UAE for just a year and a half, Bolla said his life changed overnight.

Mother’s birthday number brings luck

Bolla revealed that his winning ticket carried deep personal significance. He used the Easy Pick feature for most of the numbers but deliberately selected “11" to mark the month of his mother’s birthday.

“I haven’t done any magic or something," he said with a smile. “The last number is very special, it’s my mum’s birthday."

That small, heartfelt tribute became the key to unlocking the country’s first Dh100 million jackpot. Bolla had purchased 12 tickets, each costing Dh50, for the draw.

Recalling the life-changing moment, Bolla said, “I was in shock. I was sitting on the sofa, just feeling that, yes, I won it."

How does he plan to use the money?

Once the initial disbelief faded, he began to reflect on how to use the windfall wisely. “Now that I have this money, I need to work on my thoughts in the right way. I want to do something big," he said.

Among his personal dreams, Bolla hopes to buy a supercar and celebrate at a seven-star hotel, but his biggest wish is to bring his family to the UAE so they can live together.

Bolla’s most emotional moment came when he spoke about his parents. “My mum and dad had very small dreams. I want to fulfil all of them and take care of them," he said tearfully.

He also expressed a desire to donate a portion of his winnings to charity. “I believe that donation will reach people who really need it. That gives me happiness," he added.

From anticipation to celebration, this is the reveal that changed everything!Anilkumar Bolla takes home AED 100 Million! A Lucky Day we’ll never forget. 🏆For Anilkumar, Oct. 18 wasn’t just another day, it was the day that changed everything.A life transformed, and a reminder… pic.twitter.com/uzCtR38eNE— The UAE Lottery (@theuaelottery) October 27, 2025

The timing of his win, just before Diwali, the festival of lights, made it feel even more special. “It feels like an exceptional blessing," Bolla said. “Winning on such an auspicious occasion makes it even more meaningful."

Expressing his gratitude, he concluded, “I really want to thank The UAE Lottery. You’ve given me a very big opportunity. I hope this continues for years."

Shuddhanta Patra

Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior Sub‑Editor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influenced public...Read More

Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior Sub‑Editor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influenced public...

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News world ‘I Want To Do Something Big’: Indian Expat Wins Dh100 Million UAE Lottery, Dedicates Win To Mother

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