In a remarkable stroke of luck, Sakil Khan Sarwar Khan, a 39-year-old Indian expatriate based in the UAE, emerged as the victor of the grand prize worth AED 15 million (approximately Rs 33.8 crore) during the weekly draw of the Big Ticket Abu Dhabi.

Sakil Khan clinched this substantial reward by securing ticket number 191115 in the raffle draw number 254, which he acquired through an online purchase on July 25 - a date that coincided with his birthday. Working as an engineering coordinator at a prominent IT company in Dubai, Khan jointly acquired the winning ticket with a group comprising his colleagues and friends. As a testament to his generosity, he intends to divide the prize money among 15 individuals.

In a candid conversation with Big Ticket organizers, Khan shared, "Typically, I choose raffle ticket numbers at random. However, this time, purchasing the tickets on my birthday prompted me to meticulously contemplate the numbers I selected."

With the newfound fortune, Khan envisions settling his outstanding debts and launching a business venture. For those eager to participate in the upcoming live draw this month, a chance awaits to seize AED 20 million on September 3. Additionally, purchasers of tickets will be automatically entered into the weekly electronic draw, vying to be one of four lucky winners pocketing AED 100,000 (approximately Rs 2.26 lakh) every week.

Originating in 1992 with an initial top prize of AED one million (roughly Rs 2.25 crore), the Big Ticket draw has evolved into one of the UAE's most sought-after monthly events. Aspiring participants can conveniently buy tickets via the official Big Ticket website or by visiting the counters located at Abu Dhabi International Airport and Al Ain Airport.