A Syrian expatriate living in the UAE for over three decades has won the coveted $1 million prize in the Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire draw, describing it as the “greatest Eidiya” he could ever receive.
Persistence Pays Off for Long-Time UAE Resident
“I knew I would win one day. But I never expected it to be so soon after Eid Al Fitr. I consider this Eidiya from the Almighty. I must be the recipient of the highest Eidiya this year,” said Maed Hassan, who has called the UAE home since 1992.
The mechanical engineer, who works at Combined Group Contracting Company in Abu Dhabi, struck gold with ticket number 2525 in the Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire Series 495. He purchased the winning ticket online on March 7 and was overjoyed when he received the confirmation call about his US $1 million windfall.
Nine Years and Dh100,000 Later: A Dream Realised
Hassan’s journey to becoming a millionaire wasn’t an overnight success story. “I have been participating for the last nine years and have spent over Dh100,000 on tickets. This win makes it all worth it,” he revealed.
This remarkable victory isn’t his first brush with good fortune. In October 2023, he won a Mercedes Benz S500 in the Finest Surprise Series 1853, which he later sold. However, his latest jackpot carries deeper significance, particularly because of its timing around the Eid holiday.
More Than Personal Gain: Plans to Help Syria
Despite the substantial financial boost, Hassan doesn’t intend to spend his winnings extravagantly. Instead, he sees this fortune as an opportunity to make a difference in his homeland.
“It came during Eid, making it the greatest Eidiya I could ever receive. But it’s not just for me, I want to share it with those in need in my country,” he explained.
For the 64-year-old expatriate, Syria remains close to his heart, and he views this win as a chance to contribute to its reconstruction. “Now that Syria is free, we are hopeful for better days ahead. This Eidiya is for the people of Syria who need support. I want to do my part in rebuilding our country,” Hassan stated.
Family First: Supporting His Children’s Dreams
As a father of three—a daughter and two sons—Hassan plans to allocate part of his winnings toward his youngest son’s medical education. “Medical school is expensive, but it’s a worthy investment. I am proud of him as he is chasing his dreams,” he said.
Hassan’s approach to his newfound wealth showcases his practical thinking. “I plan to buy property in the UAE, as it’s a solid investment. As for a new car, I’ll get one soon, but not a Mercedes for now,” he mentioned, emphasising that helping those back home remains his priority.
A Win With Purpose
While many might view such a substantial prize as an opportunity for personal indulgence, Hassan sees it differently. For him, this jackpot represents more than individual success—it’s about creating meaningful impact.
“I always believed I would win one day. Now that it’s happened, I want to use it wisely, for my family, my country, and those in need,” he reflected.
Hassan’s story serves as an inspiring reminder of how persistence can pay off and how even the most fortunate circumstances can be channelled toward helping others.
Dubai Duty Free: Creating Millionaires Since 1999
The Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire promotion has been turning ordinary travellers and UAE residents into millionaires since its inception. The raffle, which began in 1999, continues to be one of the most popular draws in the UAE, with tickets priced at Dh1,000 each.
Winners can claim their prize regardless of nationality or residence status, making it accessible to both tourists and residents. The promotion has created hundreds of millionaires over the years, cementing its reputation as one of Dubai’s most prestigious raffles.
This article reflects information available as of April 2025. Details about Dubai Duty Free promotions may change over time.
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