An Indian expatriate working in the United Arab Emirates has won a record-breaking ₹240 crore (Dh100 million) lottery prize, becoming an overnight millionaire. The winner, Anil Kumar Bolla, moved to the UAE about 18 months ago for work and struck fortune in the Lakhpati Day Draw held in Abu Dhabi on October 18, 2025. Out of 8.8 million participants, his ticket number 11 turned out to be the jackpot winner. Interestingly, Anil chose that number as it coincided with his mother’s birthday. “This victory is entirely due to my mother’s blessings. I did nothing beyond that,” Anil said while speaking to local media.
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
Despite his windfall, Anil stated that he has no intention of quitting his job or leaving the UAE in the near future. “I purchased 12 tickets two months ago, and one of them changed my life forever. When I first heard I had won, I was shocked and only believed it after receiving a confirmation call from the lottery company,” he said. He further revealed that he plans to remain in the UAE for another ten years, continuing his current employment.
Discussing his future plans, Anil mentioned that he intends to buy a home on Yas or Saadiyat Island, invest in stock markets and real estate with expert guidance, and launch an IT consultancy with a friend. He also expressed his wish to allocate part of his winnings to charity and fulfill his parents’ dreams by bringing them to live with him in the UAE. “This country is safe, and I am proud to build my life here,” Anil Bolla added.