Filipina Expat Wins Dh30m Big Ticket, Eyes First Home in the UAE

A Filipina expat who just hit the Dh30 million Big Ticket jackpot isn’t rushing into flashy spending. Instead, she’s pressing pause, planning ahead, and putting UAE property at the top of her list.

Anna Gayongan, a 38-year-old finance professional who’s been working in the UAE for 15 years, says the win is a blessing—but one that needs careful handling.

A Long-Time Dream Finally Feels Possible

Gayongan says buying property in the UAE has always been a goal, and the jackpot finally makes it realistic.

She describes the country as a safe place to invest and says owning a home here feels like the smartest first step. For now, she’s taking advice from people she trusts and making sure every decision is thought through.

Her mindset is simple: mishandled money disappears fast.

The Ticket She Quietly Saved For

The winning number, 074090, came from a ticket she bought on her own—something she doesn’t usually do.

In the past, she joined friends to split the cost. This time, she saved up and bought two tickets worth Dh1,000, without telling anyone—not even her husband—until after the win.

She admits it was a big expense for their household, which made the surprise even more unreal.

Life Goes On, Just a Bit Sweeter

Despite the windfall, Gayongan plans to keep her routine. She’ll continue commuting to Abu Dhabi for her job at an automotive company, while her husband stays in his oil and gas role in Dubai.

The couple does have one new plan: travel. With their one-year-old son, they’re eyeing a family holiday in Australia or Georgia soon.

Taking It Slow, One Step at a Time

News of the win has already reached her family back in the Philippines, and reactions are pouring in—including from people now inspired to try their luck with Big Ticket.

For now, Gayongan says the focus is staying grounded, avoiding rushed decisions, and moving forward carefully.

More Big Ticket Prizes Coming in 2026

The latest Big Ticket draw also saw an Indian expat win a BMW 430i coupe.

Looking ahead, January 2026 will feature 27 prizes, including a Dh20 million grand jackpot, five Dh1 million prizes, and weekly Dh50,000 draws for four winners.

Tickets are available online and at Zayed International Airport and Al Ain Airport. The Big Ticket Millionaire entry costs Dh500, while car draw tickets are Dh150.