Abu Dhabi: The UAE Lottery has confirmed that its record-breaking Dh100 million jackpot winner, Anilkumar Bolla, will receive his entire prize in one tax-free lump sum, with no deductions or instalments, following a multi-step verification and approval process.
Scott Burton, Commercial Gaming Director at The UAE Lottery, told Gulf News that all winners are paid in full once identity verification and banking approvals are completed — a process that can take several weeks depending on the prize amount and regulatory checks.
“The UAE Lottery is proud to offer full, tax-free payouts, ensuring winners receive the entire prize amount in a single transaction,” Burton said.
The 29-year-old Indian expat IT professional from Telangana became the UAE’s first-ever Dh100 million grand prize winner on October 18, 2025, after matching all seven numbers in the Lucky Day Draw Series No. 251018.
Inside the payout process
Once a winner is identified, they are invited to the UAE Lottery headquarters for a formal meeting to verify their identity, complete documentation, and review the payout procedures.
All required documents are then submitted for regulatory and banking clearance. After approval, the jackpot amount is directly transferred to the winner’s bank account.
Burton said this transparent approach mirrors international best practices and reinforces player confidence and trust.
Guidance and support for winners
Beyond the payout, The UAE Lottery provides comprehensive support to grand prize winners, offering guidance on financial management and emotional wellbeing.
“Winning such a large sum can be both exciting and overwhelming. We aim to guide our winners through responsible wealth management,” Burton noted.
A dedicated advisory team offers briefings and encourages winners to seek independent financial advice.
Through a partnership with Takalam, a UAE-based mental health platform, winners also gain access to confidential emotional support.
Anilkumar’s future plans
Anilkumar, who has lived in Abu Dhabi for just over 18 months, said he plans to invest in a villa on Saadiyat or Yas Island, the stock market, and an IT consultancy. He also hopes to bring his family to the UAE and donate part of his winnings to charity.
Despite his massive win, Bolla said he doesn’t plan to quit his job immediately, choosing to continue working for now.
Lottery participation surges nationwide
Since the announcement of Anilkumar’s win, The UAE Lottery has seen a spike in player participation and renewed public excitement.
“This milestone reminded everyone that winning is real and that life-changing prizes do happen,” Burton said.
In the latest draw held on November 1, another participant won Dh1 million, further fueling nationwide interest.
So far, The UAE Lottery has celebrated over 200 winners of Dh100,000 or more, with total payouts exceeding Dh147 million.
Future jackpots and anniversary surprises
Burton confirmed that more jackpot opportunities are on the way, hinting at special draws and promotions as The UAE Lottery marks its first anniversary this month.
“We’ve given away more than Dh147 million in total prizes within our first year, and there’s much more to come,” he said.
Regular player feedback helps shape new game formats and digital experiences, ensuring the lottery remains engaging and rewarding.
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