A security guard in Sharjah has finally struck gold after a decade of perseverance. Ashik Patinharath, a 38-year-old from Kerala, won the grand prize of Dh25 million in the latest Big Ticket draw, marking a life-changing moment after years of hopeful ticket purchases.
Having lived in the UAE for 19 years, Ashik has been buying Big Ticket entries solo for the past 10 years. Despite never winning before, he remained optimistic. “I wasn’t watching the live draw, so when I got the call, I was in complete shock,” he said in a Khaleej Times report. “It’s a dream come true after so many years.”
Ashik, who comes from humble beginnings, plans to use his winnings to support his family back home in India. Yet, his faith in Big Ticket remains strong. “I will keep playing, and my advice to others is simple—buy your tickets every month because your time will come,” he added.
Meanwhile, Emirati IT manager Mohamed AlZarooni, 39, also walked away a winner, claiming a BMW M440i in the draw. Having started playing just five months ago, he was thrilled by the unexpected win. “I’m still deciding whether to keep or sell the car, but this victory has motivated me even more,” he shared.
The excitement continues in February, with Big Ticket offering a Dh20 million grand prize, weekly e-draws of Dh250,000, and the return of the Big Win Contest, a live spin-the-wheel game for customers who purchase two or more tickets in a single transaction. Additionally, dream car draws for a Maserati Grecale and a Range Rover Velar are set for March and April.
Tickets can be purchased online at www.bigticket.ae or at Zayed International Airport and Al Ain Airport counters.