- The UAE led Indian outbound travel with 26.3% of departures due to proximity and connectivity
- Saudi Arabia ranked second with 10.3% of trips, driven by pilgrimage and diaspora ties
- Thailand held third place with 6.8%, favored for affordability and vibrant cultural experiences
India's love for travelling abroad has grown noticeably in the last few years, with more people eager to discover new places and experiences across the world. Rising incomes, better flight connectivity and a stronger desire for international holidays have encouraged many Indians to pack their bags and explore further. The latest figures released by the Ministry of Tourism offer a clear picture of just how much this trend has accelerated. The report highlights the countries Indians visited the most and how travel patterns have shifted within a year. According to this data, 3.27 crore Indians travelled abroad in 2025, the highest ever recorded. This is a steady jump from 3.08 crore departures in 2024, showing that international travel has become a priority for many families as well as working professionals.
Top Three Countries Indians Travelled To In 2025
1. United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates continued to dominate outbound Indian travel in 2025, attracting 26.3 per cent of all Indian departures. Here is what kept the UAE firmly at the number one spot:
What Makes the UAE So Popular
- The UAE is one of the closest international destinations for Indians, which makes travel convenient, quick and budget-friendly.
- Flight connectivity between India and cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi is among the strongest in the world, offering frequent and affordable options throughout the year.
- Shopping festivals, modern entertainment venues, beaches, theme parks and luxury experiences continue to attract families, couples and young travellers alike.
2. Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia secured the second spot among the most visited countries by Indians in 2025, accounting for 10.3 per cent of all outbound departures. Even with a slight decline from the previous year, the country continues to attract a strong flow of Indian travellers because of deep cultural, spiritual and community ties.
What Makes Saudi Arabia Popular:
- Saudi Arabia is a central destination for Umrah and other pilgrimage-related travel, drawing large numbers of Indian visitors every year.
- A significant Indian diaspora lives and works in the country, leading to frequent family visits and work-related travel.
- The cultural familiarity and long-standing ties between India and Saudi Arabia make travel comfortable and meaningful for many travellers.
3. Thailand
Thailand claimed the third spot in 2025, drawing 6.8 per cent of all outbound Indian travellers.
Its charm lies in the perfect blend of affordability, beauty and cultural vibrance, which keeps Indians returning year after year.
What Makes Thailand Popular
- Thailand offers budget-friendly travel, making it one of the easiest international holidays for Indian families, couples and young groups.
- Its famous beaches, lively street markets and vibrant nightlife appeal to travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
- The country's short flight duration and a wide range of food, shopping and cultural experiences make it especially attractive for quick getaways.
Other Countries Indians Travelled To In 2025
Here are additional countries that saw significant Indian footfall according to the Ministry of Tourism's data:
- Singapore
- United States of America
- United Kingdom
- Malaysia
- Qatar
- Kuwait
- Oman
- Canada
- Australia
- Vietnam
- Sri Lanka
- Germany
- Bahrain
- Japan
- France
- Russia
India's outbound travel in 2025 reflects a strong and growing passion for exploring international destinations. With 3.27 crore departures, it is clear that Indian travellers are more willing than ever to spend on global experiences. While some countries saw marginal declines, the overall upward trend remains impressive. UAE, Saudi Arabia and Thailand continued to lead as top choices, supported by convenient access, tourism appeal and cultural ties.
As global connectivity expands further, India's position as one of the world's most influential outbound travel markets is set to grow even stronger in the coming years.
