Archive · 23 Jul 2026
Arab tourists boost Kerala's tourism growth
Kerala, a state in India, is seeing a big increase in tourists from Arab countries like Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the UAE.
These tourists spend a lot of money on hotels, food, and shopping, which is helping Kerala's economy.
The state's usual off-season, from June to September, is now becoming popular because Arab tourists like to visit during this time.
A big meeting called Indo-Arab Connect 2026 is happening soon to talk about tourism between India and Arab countries.
This meeting will have tour operators from many Arab countries and is expected to bring even more tourists to Kerala.
Arab tourists are driving growth in Kerala's tourism sector, especially in Ayurveda and luxury travel.
Kerala's off-season (June-September) is becoming popular due to Arab tourists' interest.
Oman is now the third-largest source market for tourists to Kerala, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE also in the top ten.
Arab tourists spend an average of $3,000 per day, compared to $550-$700 by European tourists.
Indo-Arab Connect 2026, a tourism summit, will be held in August and September, with 200 tour operators from Arab countries.
- Who
- Arab tourists, Kerala Tourism Minister P.C. Vishnunath, Rashid Kakkat (President, AATO)
- What
- Growth in Kerala's tourism due to Arab tourists
- When
- 2025-2026, with a focus on the current season starting late June 2026
- Where
- Kerala, India
- Why
- Arab tourists' high spending and interest in Ayurveda, medical tourism, and luxury travel
Tourism Minister's Perspective
Tour Operators' Perspective
Importance of Arab Tourists
Tourism Minister's Perspective
Arab tourists are crucial for Kerala's tourism growth, especially in Ayurveda, medical tourism, luxury travel, and souvenirs.
Tour Operators' Perspective
Arab tourists are top spenders, significantly boosting Kerala's economy despite regional tensions.
Seasonal Tourism
Tourism Minister's Perspective
Kerala's off-season (June-September) is becoming popular due to Arab tourists.
Tour Operators' Perspective
Gulf countries' peak travel season aligns with Kerala's off-season, driving tourism growth.
- Arab Tourists in 2025
- Over 100,000
- Average Daily Spending by Arab Tourists
- $3,000
- Average Daily Spending by European Tourists
- $550-$700
- Top Source Markets for Kerala
- US, UK, Oman, Saudi Arabia, UAE
- Indo-Arab Connect 2026
- Tourism summit with 200 tour operators from Arab countries
- Event Dates
- August 31 - September 7, 2026
- Kerala's Off-Season
- June to September