SA expat in Dubai wins R22m in historic UAE Lotto draw

A South African expat in Dubai has won over R22 million in the UAE Lotto. Here's what he's planning to do with it.

May 2, 2026 - 07:00
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SA expat in Dubai wins R22m in historic UAE Lotto draw

A South African expat living in Dubai has won Dh5 million (roughly R22 700 000 million*) in a historic UAE Lottery draw.

The midweek Lotto win marks the first time the Lucky Day draw has awarded a top-tier prize on a Wednesday.

The winner, 39-year-old Branden Tekram, turned his ticket into a life-changing moment in what organisers described as a milestone for the draw.

‘We’re going to win it’ – lottery winner speaks

Tekram said he was initially stunned by the win but believed it was destined.

“We were in shock, but I told my wife, this is real,” he told the Gulf Times.

“All the time I would tell her, ‘We’re going to win it,’ and I have manifested it into my life.”

Despite the windfall, he said the family’s plans remain largely unchanged.

“For us, the plans don’t change. My wife is busy with a project, and this is actually going to help us realize that project, that dream of ours.”

UAE Lotto expands with more chances to win

The introduction of Wednesday draws has increased opportunities for participants in the UAE.

Each draw offers a Dh30 million (R136 million) grand prize, a Dh5 million second prize, and additional smaller payouts.

Organisers say the lottery is regulated to ensure transparency and responsible gaming.

“With each draw, the UAE Lottery is creating more than just winners, it’s creating moments of possibility, hope, and transformation across the country,” they said.

The latest win is the second Dh5 million prize awarded in just two months, reflecting growing participation in the draw.

*exchange rate as of 2 May 2026.

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