Abu Dhabi, August 10:  A United Arab Emirates (UAE)-based Indian expat driver from Kerala has won 1 million dirhams in a raffle, the media reported on Saturday. Originally from Thiruvananthapuram, Shanavas, 43, told The Khaleej Times: "Even if I had worked for 50 years, I wouldn't have earned anything close to this amount. Indian Wins 7 Million Dirhams Jackpot in Abu Dhabi Big Ticket Raffle.

"I arrived here in 1997 empty-handed, but with lot of expectations. I took my driver's licence and started off as a driver in Sharjah but couldn't save much. I then moved to Abu Dhabi as a family driver and now earn 2,500 dirhams."

Shanavas won the mega prize through the 'Mall Millionaire' campaign launched by Line Investments and Property at its eight malls in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. Kerala Man Hits Jackpot in Dubai, Wins 12 Million Dirham Lottery at Big Ticket Raffle.

This drive comes as part of 47-day Retail Abu Dhabi summer sales by the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi. Shanavas had spent more than 200 dirhmas at Khalidiyah Mall to enter the campaign draw.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 10, 2019 02:59 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).