TBM Staff - Mumbai Washington, DC’s $10.2 billion tourism industry is poised for continued growth, driven by major international events and notable openings, according to Destination DC (DDC), the official marketing organization for the capital. At its annual Marketing Outlook Meeting held at the Washington Hilton, DDC outlined strategies to build on the success of its “Only One DC” campaign and capitalize on upcoming events, such as the presidential inauguration and WorldPride 2025.
“India continues to be a market of top importance to Washington, DC, welcoming 165,100 Indian visitors in 2023,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, President and CEO of DDC. “The market is currently the city’s second largest overseas inbound market and reflects the highest spending total at $287,400,000 USD for the year,” he added.
“DDC launched its award-winning campaign last year in India. ‘There’s Only One Washington, DC’ positions the destination as wholly unique, spotlighting a diversity of experiences that research shows India prioritizes, including arts and culture, shopping, luxury amenities and a robust culinary scene. “Additional funding has allowed us to reach more potential travellers than any campaign to date. In 2025, we will continue to be more aggressive with our global advertising in the Indian market and plan to meet with Indian travel agents and media,” according to Travel Economics and the U.S. Department of Commerce.
According to the release, “Nearly 26 million visitors to Washington, DC last year directly supported more than just our hotels, restaurants, tour operators and local businesses. Over $10 billion in spending and $2 billion in tax revenue impacts the entire city, emphasizing the continued importance of tourism to Washington, DC.”
