The rise of middle-class Indian travelers is reshaping the global tourism landscape, with a growing number of destinations targeting this fast-expanding market. As more countries offer visa exemptions and tailored experiences, Indian tourists are increasingly exploring new, unique destinations far from the well-trodden paths.
Indian Travelers on the Rise
In cities like Delhi, large billboards now promote exotic vacation packages, including a Disney cruise in Singapore, sparking interest among families eager for new experiences. However, for some, like Karishma Mohan, a mother of two, the wait for the first Asia-based Disney Cruise, set to launch in December 2025, has led them to reconsider their travel plans. Despite the delay, the family remains excited about the cruise next year, showing a broader trend of middle-class Indians looking for adventurous overseas holidays.
According to Euromonitor International, as Indian consumers increase their travel spending, the outbound tourism sector is poised for significant growth, with India expected to become the fourth-largest global spender on travel by 2030. In 2023 alone, Indian tourists spent US$34.2 billion on overseas holidays, placing them eighth in global tourism expenditure. This is a sharp rise from 14th place in 2019.
Middle-Class India Powers Growth
Tourism growth is being driven by India’s expanding middle class, set to double by 2047, which fuels increasing disposable incomes and a stronger desire for international travel. Destinations across the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe are tailoring their offerings to meet the desires of these affluent travelers, who are increasingly seeking unique, immersive cultural experiences.
For instance, Saudi Arabia has launched a campaign to attract 7.5 million Indian tourists over the next decade, aiming to diversify its economy by tapping into the growing tourism market. Indian airlines, such as Air India and Indigo, are adding more international routes, making global destinations more accessible to the Indian middle class.
Offbeat Destinations Gain Appeal
While destinations like the UAE and Thailand have long been favorites, new locations are emerging as attractive alternatives for Indian tourists. Sanchari Ganguly, a 39-year-old mother, reflects this trend with her interest in unique destinations like Finnish Lapland or a road trip through the Baltics. Ganguly, who carefully budgets her family’s vacation to spend about 500,000 rupees annually, emphasizes the desire for more than just sightseeing. “We want experiences—cultural festivals, local cuisine, and exploring new countries,” she shares.
India’s growing number of destinations offering visa-on-arrival or simplified visa processes—such as Japan, Dubai, and Indonesia—also contribute to the surge in outbound tourism. As a result, Indian travelers are now exploring destinations that were previously out of reach due to complex visa procedures.
The Impact on Global Tourism
The rise in Indian tourism is significantly altering global travel trends. In 2024, Singapore welcomed a record number of Indian visitors, with numbers expected to rise further in the coming years. Singapore Tourism Board’s Markus Tan notes that Indians are particularly keen on shopping during their travels, with luxury goods accounting for a large portion of their spending. In fact, by June 2024, Indian tourists had spent $776.5 million in Singapore, much of it on high-end purchases.
According to travel experts, the rising disposable income of middle-class Indian families has made international travel not only more accessible but also more affordable. Studies show that traveling to international destinations like Bangkok may be cheaper than going to domestic hotspots like Goa, as hotel rates in places like Thailand are often lower than in India.
With more countries catering to Indian tourists by offering easier travel options and curated experiences, the future looks bright for Indian travelers, who are set to continue shaping global tourism trends in the years ahead.
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