India must adopt a more focused strategy for the GCC and West Asian markets, leveraging the region’s 35 per cent-plus share of the country’s international air connectivity to drive inbound tourism growth, say industry leaders. “GCC travellers represent one of India’s highest-value visitor segments, with strong demand for leisure, wellness, medical, and family travel,” says EM Najeeb, President, Confederation of Kerala Tourism Industry
Official data from the Ministry of Tourism shows the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, and Kuwait among India’s key inbound source markets, while medical value travel from the region continues to grow. Najeeb said destinations beyond Kerala and Goa — including Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, and the Northeast — remain under-promoted despite their tourism potential. He called for Arabic-language destination marketing, halal-friendly tourism infrastructure, seamless visitor facilitation, and stronger trade engagement to unlock year-round arrivals from the GCC, particularly during India’s traditional monsoon lean season.
Shreya Bansal is a reporter at TravTalk India, covering the travel and tourism industry. She brings a keen eye for emerging trends, trade developments, and the stories shaping the travel landscape. Through in-depth reporting and on-ground insights, she connects industry stakeholders with news that matters. Beyond travel, Shreya has a growing interest in the premium lifestyle space, particularly the world of fine jewellery and is eager to explore the craftsmanship, culture, and commerce that define luxury living.
