Indian Photographer And Friends Hit $1 Million Dubai Duty Free Jackpot
A group of 18 Indian expatriates living in the UAE has won $1 million in the Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire draw. Here are the key details of the win:
- Ticket number 4891 for Series 556 was held by Jijo Pulikkathodi.
- The ticket was purchased online on August 22 and drawn on September 9, 2026, at Concourse B of Dubai International Airport.
- Jijo and his 17 friends pooled money over the past three to four months.
Winner Background and Ticket Details
Jijo Pulikkathodi is a 41-year-old photographer from Kerala living in Ajman for four years. He holds a monthly salary of Dh1,800 at a photo studio and is a father of two daughters. Jijo and his 17 friends share accommodation in Ajman. Each member contributed between Dh50 and Dh100 toward the cost of the tickets. The group includes individuals working in various professions, such as pharmacy assistants, drivers, sales managers, store supervisors, electricians, and courier delivery workers.
Prize Distribution and Plans
The prize money will be distributed based on individual contributions, with estimates suggesting each member may receive between Dh184,000 and Dh367,000. Jijo stated he plans to use his share to open his own photo studio. Group member Mohammed Anas confirmed that the team verified the winning number after the draw, despite being at work when the news broke. Jijo is the 283rd Indian national to win the $1 million prize since the Millennium Millionaire promotion began in 1999.
Other Winners and Official Warning
In the same draw cycle, other Indians were also recognized. Rohan Prakash Fernandes received a ceremonial cheque for winning $1 million in Series 554 with ticket number 1710. Additionally, 53-year-old Sharjah resident Yogesh Dhanak won a Range Rover SE P360 in Finest Surprise Series 1962 with ticket number 1243, purchased on August 19 at Concourse B. Melwin Pontes, a Dubai resident, won an Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 motorbike in Finest Surprise Series 678, following a previous win of an Aprilia RSV4 Factory 1100 in October 2025. The Series 556 draw was conducted by Dubai Duty Free Managing Director Ramesh Cidambi and senior management members. Dubai Duty Free officials advise participants to verify ticket details only through official channels and warn against sending money to unknown individuals claiming to facilitate prize releases or processing fees.