Five days ahead of his 60th birthday, Kishore Pandurang Rao celebrates two major milestones in one week paving the way for family reunions and lifelong travel dreams.
Abu Dhabi, UAE, 26 October 2026: Indian national Kishore Pandurang Rao was already preparing to mark a milestone in his life when another memorable moment arrived first. Just five days before his 60th birthday, the long-time UAE resident discovered that he had won AED 5 million with The UAE Lottery.
Kishore has called the UAE home for three decades. His winning ticket was for the 3 October draw, with his birthday falling on 8 October, giving him two major reasons to celebrate within the space of a week.
The Sharjah resident matched all six numbers in the "Days" section, marking the latest second-prize win in the Lucky Day game since its countrywide rollout. His AED 50 ticket was purchased through The UAE Lottery platform and generated using Easy Pick, with the winning numbers drawn live on a Saturday evening.
A long-held wish, now within reach
For Kishore, the opportunity to apply for a Golden Visa represents a meaningful possibility for the future. What was once an aspiration is now something he can actively explore, bringing him a step closer to a goal he has had in mind for years.
"I always hoped that one day I would get a Golden Visa. I kept thinking that one day I'd get one. Now I have a chance to apply for a Golden Visa, and that's something I'd really like. I always tell my friends that one day I'll look into getting one," Kishore shared.
A milestone shared with the people closest to him
Even after confirming the AED 5 million win, Kishore initially kept the news to himself. The first person he eventually told was his wife. She was very excited, but the couple kept the news within a very small circle while they took in what had happened.
For Kishore, family is now at the center of what comes next. Having spent extended periods living apart, he is looking forward to bringing his loved ones together to the UAE and spending more time with them.
"Especially my wife," Kishore said when asked who he most wanted to share the moment with. "Together, we share our ups and downs. Now this opportunity has come, so I have to share it with her, and with my children."
As The UAE Lottery continues to share the stories behind its winners, Kishore's experience reflects how the excitement of a winning moment can also become an occasion to celebrate with loved ones.
After 30 years in the UAE, new experiences ahead
Kishore first arrived in the UAE in 1993 and has since lived across Dubai, Ajman, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi. As he enters his 60s, one of the experiences he is most looking forward to is something he has never done before: explore more of the world with his wife.
"My goal is that I have to travel around the world," he said. "I have to see those places with my wife, because she is fond of travelling as well."
He is also considering a number of longer-term plans for his family, while taking his time to decide what comes next.
Enjoying the moment responsibly
Even amid the excitement of his AED 5 million win and milestone birthday, Kishore was clear about the importance of responsible participation.
"Everyone should know their own limits," he said. "They should set a limit on how much they spend."
The UAE Lottery remains committed to responsible gaming, ensuring a safe, transparent, and regulated experience for all participants. All games are fully regulated by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA).

