Bangladeshi Taxi Driver Hits Dhs 20 Million Jackpot in Sharjah

A long-time resident of the UAE, Harun Nur Nobi Sarder, a 44-year-old Bangladeshi expatriate working as a private taxi driver in Sharjah, has struck gold, winning the massive Dhs 20 million grand prize in the Big Ticket raffle draw, Series 279, held in Abu Dhabi.

Sarder won with the lucky ticket number 035350, which he purchased on September 14. His life-changing win was announced during the live draw, bringing a dramatic end to 15 years of persistence.

15 Years of Hope Pays Off-Sarder, who moved to the UAE in 2009, has been faithfully purchasing Big Ticket entries every month since he began his life in the country. Speaking moments after receiving the winning call from hosts Richard and Bouchra, the new multi-millionaire, who still maintains his humble persona, introduced himself: “Ok, ok. I am in Sharjah from Bangladesh. I am a private taxi [driver]. Ok, thank you.”

Harun Nur Nobi Sarder, whose family remains in Bangladesh, confirmed his intention to share his massive fortune, stating, “I am sharing this with 10 people.” The 44-year-old has yet to finalise his plans for the prize money but remains excited about the future and has vowed to keep participating in the draws. "I encourage others not to give up on their dreams because with Big Ticket, no dream is ever too far," he added.

Double Bangladeshi Joy in Series 279-

The Big Ticket draw delivered a double dose of fortune for the Bangladeshi community this month. In addition to Sarder's grand prize win, another long-time Bangladeshi expat secured one of the secondary prizes.

Mohammad Saiful Islam Ahamad Nabi, a 43-year-old spare parts worker also based in Sharjah, drove away with a Range Rover Velar in the same draw. Saiful, who has lived in Sharjah for 25 years, expressed similar elation and gratitude, confirming he would also continue to participate in Big Ticket.

The Big Ticket, hosted at Abu Dhabi International Airport, Al Ain Airport, and online, is the longest-running and biggest raffle draw in the UAE, guaranteeing cash prizes that range from Dhs 10 million up to the biggest jackpot of Dhs 20 million.