An Emirati man from Al Ain is celebrating a life-changing windfall after winning Dh20 million in the Abu Dhabi Big Ticket June 2025 draw. Mubarak Gharib Rashed Salem AlDhaheri, a retired military officer in his 50s, was revealed as the grand prize winner of Series 275 during a live stream held on June 3.
AlDhaheri’s winning ticket, number 337126, was drawn in a moment full of excitement and surprise, especially as the person who picked the lucky stub was last month’s winner, Indian expat Thajudeen Aliyar Kunju. Hosts Richard and Bouchra, visibly thrilled, contacted AlDhaheri with the good news. At one point, Richard nearly let slip that he’d won Dh25 million instead of the actual Dh20 million, adding to the drama.
“It was completely unexpected, but a good surprise,” said AlDhaheri, who has been buying Big Ticket entries for two years, usually at Al Ain Airport. Unlike many participants who pool resources with friends or colleagues, he purchased the winning ticket solo.
“No, I bought this ticket alone,” he confirmed, expressing his gratitude and disbelief.
The father and grandfather said he plans to invest wisely, buy a home for his family, and donate a portion of his winnings to charitable causes. “Never give up. A win is just a ticket away,” AlDhaheri said, offering hope to fellow dreamers while thanking the organisers and backstage crew of Big Ticket.
AlDhaheri’s story is especially meaningful for many UAE nationals, as it marks the first time in a long while that a local Emirati has taken home the top prize. The moment was celebrated by hosts and viewers alike.
Meanwhile, Kunju, who won Dh25 million in the Series 274 draw just a month earlier, was present at the event and shared, “We are 16 members, but we will be splitting the Dh25 million grand prize into 17 shares, with one portion going to charity.”
With dreams realised and generosity in the air, the Big Ticket community continues to change lives, one ticket at a time.
