Outbound Travel Set to Hit $55 Billion by 2034, as India Targets Strategic Growth in International Tourism
India is set to make a significant impact at this year’s Arabian Travel Market, as the country deepens its engagement with global tourism stakeholders and capitalises on rapid growth in both its outbound and domestic travel markets.
India is making a bold statement on the global tourism stage with a significantly expanded presence at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, deepening its strategic engagement with international stakeholders and underscoring its rising influence as both a key source and destination market.
Set to take place from April 28 to May 1 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2025 will witness a 41% year-on-year increase in India’s representation—an unmistakable sign of the country’s tourism resurgence and global ambition.
According to Future Market Insights, India’s outbound travel sector is on track to hit USD 55 billion by 2034, growing at a robust CAGR of 11.4%. This growth is powered by a rising middle class, increased disposable income, improved air connectivity, and a predominantly young, travel-hungry population. Millennials are leading the charge, driving demand across diverse niches—from cultural and wellness tourism to adventure and luxury experiences.
That trend is already evident in the Gulf. In 2024, Dubai welcomed over 3.14 million South Asian visitors, with Indian travellers making up the largest share. India’s amplified presence at ATM reflects not only its outbound potential but also a renewed push for deeper bilateral tourism cooperation with the UAE and beyond.
A Powerful Delegation
India’s ATM 2025 delegation will be spearheaded by the Ministry of Tourism, supported by national carriers Air India and Air India Express, and a strong lineup of state tourism boards including Goa, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. Together, they will showcase India’s wide-ranging tourism offerings—from ancient heritage and spiritual retreats to modern eco-tourism and five-star luxury.
“India’s larger showcase at ATM not only highlights the country’s rich and diverse travel offerings but also underscores its strategic importance to global travel markets,” said Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market.
Spotlight on Strategy and Innovation
India’s role extends beyond the exhibition floor. On April 30, ATM’s conference programme will shine a spotlight on hyper-local marketing strategies in emerging markets, including India and China. One session will delve into how mega sporting events like the Indian Premier League, now hosted in Saudi Arabia, can boost regional tourism ties.
On May 1, Euromonitor International will present a forward-looking market outlook on the Asia-Pacific region, followed by “India’s Next Gen Traveller,” a panel led by Shivani Gupta of SPAG – A FINN Partners Company. This session will offer exclusive insights into the evolving preferences of Indian globetrotters and strategies for destinations to better engage this high-growth audience.
Growing at Home, Soaring Abroad
While India expands its global footprint, its domestic tourism infrastructure continues to evolve. According to STR, hotel supply in India has grown over 3% CAGR in the last decade, with 114,000 rooms added since 2014. Hotel occupancy has climbed in eight of the past ten years, a clear indicator of both demand and investor confidence.
With 2,600+ exhibitors and 47,000+ attendees from 161 countries, ATM 2025 reinforces Dubai’s position as a global nexus for tourism trade and cooperation. This year’s theme, Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity, mirrors India’s own push to build a more sustainable, inclusive, and interconnected tourism future.
India’s rising profile at ATM marks a pivotal moment for the country’s tourism sector—as it balances global aspirations with a commitment to showcasing its cultural wealth and travel diversity.
