Karnaiah Mandolla, a 45-year-old software engineer based in Sharjah, became the latest millionaire after winning $1 million in the Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire promotion. The draw took place at Concourse B of Dubai International Airport on Wednesday.
Mandolla, who has been a UAE resident for 12 years, bought the winning ticket, number 4576, online on October 5. Employed by Emirates Airlines, he has participated in the promotion consistently for the past 8 years.
A jubilant Mandolla expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thank you, Dubai Duty Free! This prize will not only clear my debts but also ensure my children’s education. I also plan to donate a part of it to charity.” He further encouraged others to take a chance on the promotion.
The Indian national, originally from Andhra Pradesh, is the 217th Indian to win $1 million since the Millennium Millionaire promotion began in 1999. Records show that Indian nationals make up the largest group purchasing tickets.
In addition to the Millennium Millionaire draw, the Finest Surprise draw was held. Maed Hassan, a 62-year-old Syrian from Abu Dhabi, bagged a sleek black Mercedes Benz S500. Hassan, who has lived in the UAE for 32 years, expressed hope to win the $1 million prize in the future.
Lastly, Sainudheen Valiyana, an Indian national visiting from Kochi, India, won a BMW R 1250 GS motorbike. Valiyana could not be reached for comment, but the news will surely come as a delightful surprise.