The mystery winner of the UAE Lottery’s record-breaking Dh100 million jackpot has finally been revealed. The lucky winner is Anilkumar Bolla, a 29-year-old Indian expat and long-time Abu Dhabi resident, who has now become the UAE’s newest multimillionaire.
Anilkumar struck gold in the 23rd Lucky Day Draw #251018 held on October 18, according to the Khaleej Times. The jackpot was not shared, meaning Anilkumar will take home the entire Dh100 million — making it one of the biggest individual lottery wins in the UAE’s history. He matched all seven winning numbers, defying odds of 1 in 8.8 million.
Speaking to the media, Anilkumar shared his disbelief and joy upon receiving the life-changing call from the UAE Lottery team. “I was at home, relaxing, when they called. I was completely shocked and overjoyed. This win is beyond my wildest dreams. I kept asking them to repeat the message — it took time to sink in,” he said.
When asked about his plans for the massive prize, the Abu Dhabi resident said he intends to make wise investments and fulfil the dreams of his family. “I was just thinking about how to invest this amount in the right way. After winning, I felt like I have money — now I need to work on my thoughts in the right way. I want to do something big,” he said, adding that he hopes to buy a supercar and celebrate with his family at a luxury resort. “My mom and dad had very small dreams. I want to fulfil whatever dreams they have.”
Anilkumar’s win was part of a landmark night for the UAE Lottery, which also saw 10 other participants win Dh100,000 each. Since its launch, the UAE Lottery has created over 200 winners of Dh100,000 and distributed more than Dh147 million in total prizes to over one lakh players.
Scott Burton, Commercial Gaming Director of the UAE Lottery, congratulated Anilkumar on his historic win. “The Dh100,000,000 prize will not only change his life but also signify a remarkable milestone for The UAE Lottery, reinforcing our mission to uplift people’s lives while delivering exciting and responsible lottery experiences,” Burton said.
One of the most striking aspects of this win is that Anilkumar will receive the entire amount tax-free. The UAE does not impose income tax on lottery winnings. In contrast, if someone were to win ₹240 crore in India, the prize would be taxed at a flat 30%, plus a 15% surcharge and 4% Health and Education Cess — leaving the winner with roughly ₹154 crore after deductions.
For Anilkumar, however, the dream remains untaxed and unfiltered — a once-in-a-lifetime moment that turned a quiet day at home into a story the world is talking about.
Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (SZGM) in Abu Dhabi has solidified its status as one of the world’s leading cultural landmarks, being named the number one tourist attraction in the Middle East and eighth globally in TripAdvisor’s 2025 Travellers’ Choice Awards. The mosque climbed two spots from its 2024 global ranking, continuing its trajectory as an architectural and cultural beacon.
Selected from more than 8 million global landmarks, SZGM is now among the top 1% of all reviewed attractions, based on feedback from millions of international travellers. This recognition is a testament to its outstanding visitor experience, inclusive programming, and architectural grandeur.
A Vision of Culture, Faith, and Innovation
“The global recognition attained by Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque reflects the visionary leadership of the UAE,” said Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre (SZGMC). He credited the rise in global standing to the mosque’s year-round strategic efforts in enhancing guest experiences, expanding cultural initiatives, and developing infrastructure and services.
SZGM: More Than a Mosque
Beyond being a site of prayer, SZGM is a global hub for cultural dialogue, drawing over seven million visitors annually. Its mission revolves around peace, coexistence, and heritage, making it an inclusive destination for people of all backgrounds.
Visitors can enjoy:
🕌 Cultural tours by trained Emirati guides
🚗 ‘Unseen Glimpses’ electric car tours exploring exclusive parts of the mosque
🎧 El-Delleel – a 14-language multimedia guide including sign language & children’s content
🛍️ Souq Al Jami’ – shopping & dining experiences
🏃 Jogging track offering panoramic views
🌌 Sura evening tours – 24-hour access for transit tourists
Landmark Achievements Across the UAE
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Fujairah also earned global recognition, ranking in the top 10% of tourist landmarks worldwide. This is especially significant considering its relatively recent activation of visitor services.
Together, both mosques exemplify the UAE’s commitment to cultural diplomacy and intercultural dialogue, rooted in authentic Islamic values.
Cultural Experiences Beyond Compare
The mosque’s Dome of Peace, Light & Peace Museum, and rotating exhibitions like Hajj: Memories of a Journey and Coins of Islam offer immersive encounters with Islamic heritage.
The Diya – A Universe of Light experience uses 360-degree sound, wind, and light to take visitors on a sensory journey through starlit universes into the heart of the UAE’s cultural soul.
A Symbol on the World Stage
Thanks to its excellence, SZGM has become a must-visit site for international dignitaries, with 82% of visitors coming from abroad. Its rising stature strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a cultural capital, while showcasing the UAE’s ethos of peace and innovation.
As global recognition grows, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque stands tall – not just as a building, but as a living message of unity, light, and legacy.
Goa, 8th May 2025 – Goa proudly announces the commencement of scheduled international services to Abu Dhabi and Kuwait, operated by Air India Express. This milestone marks a significant step forward in enhancing the state’s international connectivity, providing greater travel options for tourists, business travelers, and the Goan diaspora, while opening new avenues for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. The flight schedule for Goa to Kuwait is on Thursdays and Saturdays & for Goa to Abu Dhabi on Mondays and Tuesdays
With these new services, travelers from Kuwait and Abu Dhabi can now easily access Goa’s vast array of offerings — from pristine beaches, lush monsoon landscapes, and waterfalls to its distinctive culinary experiences, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant festivals. The launch underscores Manohar International Airport’s commitment to expanding Goa’s global reach and positioning the state as a sought-after international destination.
Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, remarked “Goa’s international connectivity is about creating bridges between cultures, economies, and people. The launch of Air India Express’ direct flights from Kuwait and Abu Dhabi complements our efforts to attract quality tourism, strengthen the local economy, and establish Goa as a year-round destination. These flights will serve as a catalyst for economic development, cultural exchange, and deeper bilateral ties between Goa and these key international markets.” Speaking on the occasion, Shri. R.V. Sheshan, CEO & Director, GMR Goa International Airport Ltd., said “The launch of direct flights to Kuwait and Abu Dhabi is a landmark achievement for Manohar International Airport. These connections not only improve convenience for travelers but also reinforce Goa’s standing on the global aviation map. We are dedicated to ensuring seamless, world-class travel experiences that benefit both international visitors and the Goan community.”
Shri. Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, added “The enhanced connectivity provided by these new international flights aligns perfectly with Goa’s vision of promoting regenerative and sustainable tourism. We welcome travelers from Kuwait and Abu Dhabi to explore the unique charm of Goa — beyond its beaches — by immersing themselves in our heritage, hinterlands, festivals, and local communities. This is an important step towards positioning Goa as a globally competitive, culturally rich destination.”
With robust infrastructure, efficient e-Visa facilities, and a commitment to excellence, Manohar International Airport continues to play a pivotal role in driving Goa’s tourism growth, economic prosperity, and international standing.
Twice-daily flights between North Goa and Delhi, and daily services connecting North Goa with Bengaluru, Indore, and Chennai launched on April 15; Hyderabad route to commence May 3.
15-April-2025, Goa: Expanding its footprint in Goa, Air India Express has launched operations from Manohar International Airport (GOX) in North Goa, complementing its existing services at Goa International Airport (GOI). With operations now from both airports, the airline will operate over 115 weekly flights from Goa—including 75 from GOI and over 40 from GOX—offering travellers enhanced flexibility and improved access to North Goa, renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, bustling markets, and rich cultural heritage.
Effective April 15, 2025, Air India Express launched new services connecting North Goa with Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, and Indore, further strengthening domestic connectivity to the region. The airline now operates twice-daily flights to Delhi, daily flights to Bengaluru and Indore, and flights to Chennai on all days except Wednesdays. Services on the Hyderabad–North Goa route will commence on May 3, 2025. Expanding its international footprint from North Goa, Air India Express will also launch direct flights to Kuwait starting May 3, followed by services to Abu Dhabi from May 5, 2025.
To mark the commencement of Air India Express operations from North Goa, the airline and the airport operator hosted a celebratory event at Manohar International Airport. The event was attended by Siddhartha Butalia, Chief Marketing Officer, Air India Express; Shashi Chetia, Vice President – Network Planning, Air India Express; and Anand Ramachandran, Deputy CEO, Manohar International Airport, along with key airport stakeholders including representatives from CISF, Customs, and other operational partners. As part of the celebrations, a ceremonial boarding pass was presented to the first guest of the inaugural flight.
Schedule Effective 15th April 2025 (All timings are local)
Departure
Arrival
Departure Time
Arrival Time
Frequency
MOPA, North Goa
Delhi
14:45; 21:15
17:20; 23:50
2X Daily
Delhi
MOPA, North Goa
07:10; 18:10
09:45; 20:45
2X Daily
MOPA, North Goa
Indore
10:15
11:50
Daily
Indore
MOPA, North Goa
12:20
13:55
Daily
Bengaluru
MOPA, North Goa
06:25
07:45
Daily
MOPA, North Goa
Bengaluru
08:15
09:35
Daily
Chennai
MOPA, North Goa
16:40
18:20
Daily except Wednesday
MOPA, North Goa
Chennai
18:55
20:35
Daily except Wednesday
Schedule Effective 3rd May 2025 (All timings are local)
Hyderabad
MOPA, North Goa
14:35
16:00
Saturday
MOPA, North Goa
Kuwait
18:05
20:05
Saturday
Kuwait
MOPA, North Goa
21:05
04:05
Saturday
Schedule Effective 4th May 2025 (All timings are local)
MOPA, North Goa
Hyderabad
07:00
08:25
Sunday
Schedule Effective 5th May 2025 (All timings are local)
Hyderabad
MOPA, North Goa
10:25
11:50
Mon, Tue
MOPA, North Goa
Hyderabad
23:20
00:45
Mon, Tue
MOPA, North Goa
Abu Dhabi
13:15
15:20
Mon, Tue
Abu Dhabi
MOPA, North Goa
16:20
21:20
Mon, Tue
Schedule Effective 8th May 2025 (All timings are local)
Hyderabad
MOPA, North Goa
13:15
14:40
Thursday
MOPA, North Goa
Kuwait
16:40
18:40
Thursday
Kuwait
MOPA, North Goa
19:40
02:40
Thursday
Schedule Effective 9th May 2025 (All timings are local)
MOPA, North Goa
Hyderabad
04:40
06:05
Friday
Air India Express currently operates over 75 weekly flights from Goa International Airport (GOI), connecting key domestic destinations, including Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hindon, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Surat. alongside international services to Dubai. Complementing the extensive network, the airline’s ‘Xpress Holidays’ platform offers curated travel experiences, providing travellers with end-to-end packages that include flights, accommodation, transport, and immersive local experiences.
Air India Express became the first and only airline to operate from two airports in the National Capital Region, with the launch of services from Hindon, Ghaziabad, part of the National Capital Region. In addition to direct flights to Goa, the airline connects Hindon to Bhubaneswar, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Varanasi.
With a rapidly growing fleet, Air India Express recently welcomed its 100th aircraft, doubling its capacity in just two years. The airline operates over 500 daily flights across 55 destinations spanning India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
From Abu Dhabi: Air India Express operates 60 weekly flights from Abu Dhabi connecting directly to nine domestic destinations Bengaluru, Kannur, Kochi, Kozhikode, Mangaluru, Mumbai, North Goa, Thiruvananthapuram, and Tiruchirappalli. The airline also offers convenient one-stop itineraries connecting Abu Dhabi to 23 destinations in India: Amritsar, Ayodhya, Bagdogra, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Delhi, Goa, Guwahati, Gwalior, Hindon, Hyderabad, Indore, Jaipur, Kathmandu, Kolkata, Lucknow, Patna, Pune, Ranchi, Srinagar, Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) Surat, and Varanasi.
From Bengaluru: Air India Express operates more than 460 weekly flights from Bengaluru connecting directly to 31 domestic destinations: Amritsar, Ayodhya, Bagdogra, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Delhi, Goa, Guwahati, Gwalior, Hindon, Hyderabad, Indore, Jaipur, Kannur, Kochi, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mangaluru, Mumbai, North Goa, Patna, Pune, Ranchi, Srinagar, Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair), Surat, Thiruvananthapuram, Tiruchirappalli, Varanasi, and Visakhapatnam and two international destinations including Abu Dhabi and Dammam. The airline also offers convenient one-stop itineraries connecting Bengaluru to six domestic destinations including Agartala, Dibrugarh, Dimapur, Imphal, Jammu, and Vijayawada and 14 international destinations including AI Ain, Bahrain, Bangkok, Doha, Dubai, Jeddah, Kuwait, Muscat, Phuket, Ra al Khaimah, Riyadh, Salalah, Sharjah, and Singapore.
From Chennai: Air India Express operates over 130 weekly flights from Chennai connecting directly to 18 domestic destinations: Bagdogra, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Goa, Guwahati, Hindon, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kochi, Kolkata, Mangaluru, North Goa, Patna, Pune, Sri Vijaya Puram, Surat, Tiruchirappalli, and Varanasi and four international destinations including Dammam, Kuwait, Muscat, and Singapore. The airline also offers one-stop itineraries connecting Chennai to 17 domestic destinations including Agartala, Amritsar, Ayodhya, Delhi, Dibrugarh, Dimapur, Gwalior, Imphal, Indore, Jammu, Kozhikode, Lucknow, Mumbai, Ranchi, Srinagar, Thiruvananthapuram, Vijayawada, and Visakhapatnam and nine international destinations including Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Bangkok, Doha, Dubai, Jeddah, Phuket, Riyadh, and Sharjah.
From Delhi: Air India Express operates 350 weekly flights from Delhi connecting directly to 21 domestic destinations including Amritsar, Ayodhya, Bagdogra, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Goa, Guwahati, Indore, Jaipur, Jammu, Kochi, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mangaluru, Mumbai, North Goa, Patna, Pune, Ranchi, Srinagar, Surat, and Varanasi and four international destinations: Bahrain, Dammam, Muscat, and Sharjah. Additionally, the airline provides one-stop connectivity to 12 domestic destinations: Agartala, Chennai, Dibrugarh, Dimapur, Hyderabad, Imphal, Kannur, Kozhikode, Sri Vijaya Puram Thiruvananthapuram, Tiruchirappalli, and Visakhapatnam and nine international destinations: Abu Dhabi, Bangkok, Doha, Dubai, Jeddah, Kuwait, Ras al Khaimah, and Salalah.
From Hyderabad: Air India Express operates more than 250 weekly flights from Hyderabad connecting directly to 25 domestic destinations including Bagdogra, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Delhi, Goa, Guwahati, Indore, Jaipur, Kannur, Kochi, Kolkata, Kozhikode, Lucknow, Mangaluru, North Goa, Patna, Pune, Ranchi, Srinagar, Surat, Thiruvananthapuram, Varanasi, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam and three international destinations: Jeddah, Phuket, and Riyadh . Additionally, the airline provides one-stop connectivity to 12 domestic destinations: Agartala, Amritsar, Ayodhya, Dibrugarh, Dimapur, Gwalior, Hindon, Imphal, Jammu, Mumbai, Sri Vijaya Puram, and Tiruchirappalli and 12 international destinations: Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Bangkok, Dammam, Doha, Dubai, Kuwait, Muscat, Salalah, Sharjah, and Singapore.
From Indore: Air India Express operates 55 weekly flights from Indore connecting directly to six domestic destinations including Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, Jaipur, North Goa, and Pune and internationally to Sharjah. Additionally, the airline provides one-stop connectivity to 24 domestic destinations: Amritsar, Ayodhya, Bagdogra, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Goa, Guwahati, Hindon, Jammu, Kannur, Kochi, Kolkata, Kozhikode, Lucknow, Mangaluru, Mumbai, Patna, Ranchi, Srinagar, Surat, Thiruvananthapuram, Tiruchirappalli, Varanasi, and Visakhapatnam and six international destinations: Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Dammam, Jeddah, Kuwait, Muscat, and Phuket.
From Kuwait: Air India Express operates more than 20 weekly flights from Kuwait connecting directly to seven destinations in India, including Chennai, Kannur, Kochi, Kozhikode, Mangaluru, North Goa, and Tiruchirappalli. Additionally, the airline provides one-stop connectivity to 14 one-stop domestic destinations: Bagdogra, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Delhi, Guwahati, Hindon, Hyderabad, Indore, Kolkata, Patna, Port Blair, Pune, Thiruvananthapuram, and Varanasi.
From South Goa (GOI): Air India Express operates 75 weekly flights from Goa connecting directly to eight domestic destinations including Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hindon, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Surat and internationally to Dubai. Additionally, the airline provides one-stop connectivity to 22 domestic destinations: Amritsar, Ayodhya, Bagdogra, Bhubaneswar, Guwahati, Gwalior, Indore, Jaipur, Kannur, Kochi, Kozhikode, Lucknow, Mangaluru, Patna, Pune, Ranchi, Srinagar, Sri Vijaya Puram, Thiruvananthapuram, Tiruchirappalli, Varanasi, and Visakhapatnam, and eight international destinations: Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Dammam, Muscat, Sharjah, and Singapore.
Air India Express is a Tata Enterprise and a subsidiary of Air India, operating over 500 daily flights, connecting 39 domestic and 17 international airports, with a fleet of 110 aircraft, comprising 70 Boeing 737s and 40 Airbus A320s. Air India Express invites guests with the proposition to ‘Fly As You Are’, using thoughtfully considered technology to enable flyers to personalise their travel experience. The airline offers ‘Gourmair’ hot meals, comfortable seats, and a host of exclusive loyalty benefits with a sense of unique Indian warmth, and an award-winning digital experience on its mobile app and website, airindiaexpress.com.
In a significant development for travelers in Goa, Air India Express (AIX) has announced the launch of direct flights from Manohar International Airport (GOX) to Kuwait City and Abu Dhabi. This expansion marks a new chapter in the airline’s commitment to providing convenient and accessible air travel options to passengers.
The direct flight from Goa to Kuwait City is set to commence on May 3, 2025. Key details include:
Flight IX273 will depart from GOX every Saturday at 6:05 pm and every Thursday at 4:40 pm, arriving in Kuwait City at 8:05 pm and 6:40 pm respectively.
The return flight, IX274, will depart Kuwait City at 9:05 pm on Saturdays and 7:40 pm on Thursdays, arriving in GOX at 4:05 am on Sundays and 2:40 am on Fridays.
Abu Dhabi Route
The direct flight from Goa to Abu Dhabi is scheduled to start on May 5, 2025. Key details include:
Flight IX271 will depart from GOX every Monday and Tuesday at 1:15 pm, arriving in Abu Dhabi at 3:20 pm.
The return flight, IX272, will depart Abu Dhabi at 4:20 pm, arriving in GOX at 9:20 pm.
Aircraft and Operational Details
Both routes will be operated using modern Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, known for their efficiency and passenger comfort. This move is expected to enhance connectivity for passengers traveling between Goa and the Middle East, facilitating easier access for business, leisure, and family visits.
Implications for Passengers
The introduction of these direct flights is poised to benefit a wide range of travelers, including:
Business professionals looking for convenient travel options to Kuwait City and Abu Dhabi.
Tourists seeking direct access to the cultural and historical attractions of the Middle East.
Families and individuals visiting loved ones in the region.
The launch of direct flights from Goa to Kuwait City and Abu Dhabi by Air India Express is a significant step towards enhancing global connectivity and convenience for travelers. With its commitment to providing efficient and comfortable air travel, Air India Express continues to be a preferred choice for passengers.
