TBM Staff - Mumbai
Wego, the top travel app in the Middle East and North Africa, reported a 17.10% increase in international flight searches from India in November 2024 compared to the same period last year. This growth highlights the increasing demand for global travel among Indian travellers. GCC countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait, emerged as the most-searched destinations, followed by Thailand, Qatar, Oman, Malaysia, Bahrain, the U.S., and Indonesia.
The post-Diwali period significantly boosted travel activity as Indian expatriates and residents took advantage of the extended holiday season. Diwali-inspired vacations and return trips were complemented by other festivals like Guru Nanak Jayanti and Chhath Puja, which offered additional opportunities for long weekends. These events collectively drove demand for both short getaways and longer vacations, benefiting the travel ecosystem.
Wego’s analysis revealed notable airfare trends during this period. Average flight prices to the top 10 destinations increased by up to 34.43% month-over-month, reflecting heightened demand post-Diwali. However, year-over-year comparisons showed a decrease in fares to several destinations, including Qatar (-38.05%) and Kuwait (-15.36%), making international travel more affordable for Indian travellers.
This combination of festive travel, affordable airfare to some destinations, and a robust appetite for exploration underscores the resilience of India’s travel industry. As Wego continues to track travel trends, it highlights how cultural and seasonal factors influence travel behaviors and fuel growth in the sector.
