Meet the first-ever Dh5 million UAE Lottery winner from India
Beginner’s luck turns a single ticket into life-changing winnings
ABU DHABI – In a remarkable turn of fortune, The UAE Lottery’s Lucky Day Draw recently crowned its first-ever Dh5 million Second Prize winner.
The milestone prize, which has been increased from Dh1 million, generated widespread excitement among players across the Emirates.
The winner, 42-year-old Murugananth Govinthan, an Indian resident of the UAE, achieved the incredible feat on his first-ever attempt. He purchased a single ticket, shared with a close friend, which ultimately secured the life-changing sum.
“I couldn’t stop thinking about everything I’ve been through over the past three years, the challenges, my marriage, my children’s education, and all the responsibilities on my shoulders. That’s why I came to the UAE. I didn’t expect it to happen so soon. I feel very happy,” Murugananth said, reflecting on his unexpected win.
UAE Lottery milestones
Since its launch, The UAE Lottery has rapidly established itself as a premier destination for life-changing prizes. Celebrating its first anniversary in November 2025, the federally licensed lottery had already produced an Dh100 million Grand Prize winner, four Dh1 million winners, and more than 290 participants who claimed Dh100,000 each through Lucky Day, Lucky Chance, and scratch card games.
The new Dh5 million winner adds to this growing legacy, demonstrating the draw’s continued appeal and rising stakes in 2026. “We are still living in a rented house and have always wanted to build our own home. My children want that too. The situation didn’t allow it before, but now I feel I’m on the way to resolving these struggles. I feel happy and consider this a great blessing from God,” he added.
Weekly draw excitement
The Lucky Day Draw occurs every Saturday at 8:30 PM, creating a regular moment of anticipation for players throughout the UAE. The Dh5 million Second Prize now sits alongside the Dh30 million Grand Prize and the weekly Lucky Chance Raffle, which awards three winners Dh100,000 each.
The UAE Lottery operates under strict regulation by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), ensuring fairness, transparency, and responsible gaming practices. Only residents aged 18 and above may participate, with all games fully approved and monitored by the authority.
Tickets for upcoming draws are available.