Indian IT Professional in UAE Wins ₹8 Crore in Dubai Duty Free Draw
Kerala’s Venugopal Mullacheri wins $1 million as 500th Dubai Duty Free draw winner after 15 years of trying

Indian Expat from Kerala Becomes 500th Millionaire in Dubai Duty Free Draw
Dubai:
In a remarkable stroke of luck, a long-time Indian participant in the Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire draw has struck gold — becoming the 500th winner to take home a staggering prize of 1 million US dollars (approximately ₹8.54 crore).
Venugopal Mullacheri, a 52-year-old Keralan IT support professional who presently resides in Ajman, United Arab Emirates, is the fortunate winner. Mullacheri’s winning ticket, number 1163, was bought on April 23 at Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 2 Arrivals duty-free store.
Mullacheri, who has been a regular participant in the draw for more than 15 years, said he was ecstatic to hear the news.
“I’m delighted to become the 500th winner of the Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire. As a long-time participant in this popular promotion, I’m thrilled to finally win. Thank you so much, Dubai Duty Free,” he said, clearly moved by the life-changing moment.
The Chairman of Dubai Duty Free and President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, honored the historic draw, which took place at Concourse B of Dubai International Airport. Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free, was with him, and other high-ranking authorities assisted in announcing the historic occasion.
Additionally, Mullacheri’s triumph confirms Indian nationals’ domination in Dubai Duty Free promotions. With this victory, he becomes the 249th Indian to win the million-dollar prize since the program’s inception in 1999, demonstrating how actively Indian expats participate in the DDF lottery.
This milestone event marks another high point in the history of the Millennium Millionaire draw — a globally recognized promotion that continues to fulfill dreams and transform lives at one of the world’s busiest airports.



