A Multi-Billion Dollar Market on the Move
The numbers speak for themselves. India's outbound tourism market is on a powerful growth trajectory, projected to expand from USD 23.4 billion in 2026 to nearly USD 69 billion by 2036. In 2025 alone, Indian nationals made a provisional 32.7 million trips
abroad, with leisure travel leading the charge. This surge is fueled by rising disposable incomes, greater passport penetration extending into Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, and a growing appetite for new experiences. This has created a highly attractive and rapidly growing market that international destinations are eager to tap into, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are leading the pack.
Beyond Oil: A New Economic Vision
For decades, the economies of the Gulf were built on oil. Now, a major strategic shift is underway. Ambitious national projects, like Saudi Arabia's 'Vision 2030', are designed to diversify their economies and reduce this dependency, with tourism as a central pillar. Saudi Arabia, for instance, aims to attract 150 million tourists annually by 2030 and hopes India will become its top source market, targeting 7.5 million Indian visitors by that year. This isn't just about filling hotel rooms; it's about building a sustainable economic future where tourism contributes significantly to GDP and job creation across the region.
Rolling Out the Red Carpet
The Gulf's courtship of Indian travellers goes far beyond marketing slogans. It involves concrete policy changes and infrastructure development. Visa processes, a traditional pain point for Indian travellers, are being simplified. The UAE has long offered visa-on-arrival for Indians holding valid US, UK, or EU visas, and while there have been recent modifications, the ease of access remains a key draw. Saudi Arabia has also streamlined its visa system and increased capacity at visa processing centers across India. Perhaps most significantly, the phased rollout of a unified, Schengen-style GCC visa will allow travellers to visit all six member states on a single application, transforming the possibilities for regional travel.
More Flights, More Choices
Making travel easier also means making it physically more accessible. Air connectivity between India and the Gulf is increasing dramatically. Airlines are boosting flight frequencies and adding new direct routes from a growing number of Indian cities, including Ahmedabad, Lucknow, and Kozhikode. This increased capacity not only makes travel more convenient but also helps keep fares competitive. The United Arab Emirates remained India's largest international market in the first quarter of 2026, with over 2.5 million passengers travelling from India. This robust network, built on short-haul flights of just a few hours, positions the Gulf as an ideal destination for everything from long holidays to quick weekend getaways.
From Luxury Malls to Ancient Tombs
The Gulf's offerings are also diversifying to match the varied tastes of the Indian traveller. While Dubai's world-class malls, luxury resorts, and family entertainment remain a huge draw, the region is actively promoting a wider range of experiences. Saudi Arabia is marketing its UNESCO World Heritage sites like the rock-cut tombs of AlUla alongside its futuristic megaprojects. Qatar is carving a niche in luxury and wellness retreats, and its stopover programs encourage transit passengers to explore the country for a few days. Oman is attracting those interested in nature and culture with its dramatic landscapes and historic architecture, and has seen a 36% increase in Indian arrivals in early 2026.
