What: The travel industry is increasingly targeting Indian tourists as higher incomes and a growing middle class drive more people to travel internationally.

Why it is important: This shift positions India as a major player in global tourism, with the potential to reshape travel markets and influence industry strategies, especially as China's outbound tourism struggles post-pandemic.

The article highlights the growing influence of Indian tourists in the global travel market. With rising incomes and an expanding middle class, more Indians are travelling abroad, making India a key source of tourists for destinations like Dubai and Thailand. By 2027, India is expected to become the world's fifth-largest outbound tourism market. The trend is driven by increased flight connections and a cultural shift towards spending on travel. This growth is reshaping the travel industry, with airlines and hotels adjusting their offerings to cater to large Indian families travelling together.

Rise of the Indian tourist: Travel industry pivots to next big market