From IT Pro to Dh100 Millionaire: Life After the Record Win
Indian expat Anilkumar Bolla reflects on his life one year after winning the historic Dh100 million UAE Lottery jackpot.
Anilkumar Bolla, an Indian IT professional based in Abu Dhabi, is reflecting on a year of profound transformation. It has been one year since he secured a historic Dh100 million jackpot, a win that changed the trajectory of his life and set a new record for the region.
A Record-Breaking Moment
The life-altering event took place during The UAE Lottery's 23rd Lucky Day Draw on October 18, 2025. Bolla, who was 29 years old at the time of the win, managed to beat staggering odds of approximately one in 8.8 million by correctly matching all seven numbers.
His status as the sole winner was officially confirmed by the operator on October 27, 2025. Scott Burton, the Commercial Gaming Director at The UAE Lottery, noted that the win stands as the largest lottery prize ever awarded in the country.
Investing in Family and Real Estate
While a windfall of this magnitude often leads to extravagant spending, Bolla has focused heavily on long-term stability and his loved ones. He has utilized the prize to build a significant real estate portfolio, including:
- Properties in the UAE, specifically near Abu Dhabi airport and in Dubai Marina.
- Real estate investments back in his home country, India.
Beyond property, Bolla has focused on fulfilling personal milestones for his family. He gifted his mother various gold items, including a necklace, rings, and bangles, and purchased farmland in India to allow his father to pursue organic farming. His family continues to reside in their dream home in India.
"The most important thing is that I am spending quality time with my family."
His personal lifestyle has also seen upgrades, including new vehicles for himself and his brother, luxury watches, and the latest technology, such as an iPhone 17 Air. He has also taken the opportunity to travel to destinations including Bali, Thailand, and Amsterdam.
Advice for Managing Wealth
As he explores new business ventures and long-term property investments, Bolla remains grounded. He offers a simple piece of advice to anyone dreaming of similar fortune:
"Stay humble, manage your money well, and spend it wisely and with discipline."
For those interested in participating, The UAE Lottery operates under a license from the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA). The Lucky Day draw is held every other Saturday at 8:30 PM UAE time, with participation open to UAE residents aged 18 and older.
Note: The operator has issued a warning regarding the defunct Mahzooz lottery, which ceased operations on December 30, 2023, stating that any claims related to it are fraudulent.