UAE's newest lottery millionaire reveals how he picked winning numbers
When Beauregard Lim first got a notification on his phone that he had won at The UAE Lottery, he felt that the experience was 'surreal' and went straight to his wife to share the news.
'I always had hope, but actually winning was a surreal experience,' he said in an interview to Khaleej Times. 'I found out on the night of the draw, but I wasn't able to watch it live. I got a notification on my phone as I was heading off to bed. As soon as I saw the results, I went straight to my wife to tell her the big news. I felt immense gratitude and immediately said a prayer, thanking God.'
The long-term UAE resident, hailing from Manila in Philippines, became just the second person thus far to win Dh1 million after taking part in the UAE Lottery, since it began in November 2024.
Lim shared how he picked his winning numbers. 'The numbers I chose were personally significant to me; they were the birth dates of my parents, brothers, and sons,' he said. In an interview with Khaleej Times, he said that his first priority after winning is to help his family, saying the cash windfall means 'peace of mind' and 'lasting security' for him and his family.
'The first thing that came to mind was investing in business to create a stable monthly income, something that could support us consistently over time,' he said. 'The rest I plan to set aside for my sons' future. Knowing I can give them a strong foundation — whether it's for their education, a business, or just to help them get started in life — takes a huge weight off my shoulders. For the first time in a long time, I feel like I can breathe easy.'
He said that he came from a 'humble background' and arrived in the UAE in April 2004. 'I worked for five years in a logistics company and later transferred to a smelting company in Abu Dhabi, where I have been working ever since,' he explained.
However, after winning, he and his wife did not say anything to anyone. 'I didn't inform anyone right away,' he said. 'I waited for the official confirmation from The UAE Lottery before sharing the news.'
Sole ticket holder
Unlike the first winner of Dh1 million, Peer Muhammad Azam, Lim is the sole ticket holder, having bought his ticket through The UAE Lottery website. He said it was a practice he had picked up ever since he heard about the game. 'I first learned about The UAE Lottery through social media,' he said. 'I started playing and would buy just one ticket per draw.'
He said he will continue to play the game but cautioned others to put the needs of their family first. 'I will keep playing,' he said. ' The UAE Lottery continues to entertain and give hope to people. If you have extra money, play. But always prioritise your family's needs first. Everything in life should have balance.'
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