By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU/NEW DELHI — Somalia has emerged as the top country in terms of growth in travelers visiting India, according to the latest report released by the Indian Ministry of Tourism. The findings highlight a remarkable surge in Somali nationals traveling to India, with numbers rising by an unprecedented 144% compared to 2019, positioning Somalia as the leading country in “triple-digit growth” over this period.
The statistics indicate that the number of Somali travelers increased from 5,044 in 2019 to 12,320 in 2024. While there was a minor dip from 16,607 travelers in 2023, Somalia still maintains the highest number of visitors to India among all countries recorded by the Ministry. This growth rate significantly outpaces other nations, with Cambodia recording an 81% increase, Kazakhstan a 72% rise, and Vietnam a 61% rise in outbound travel to India.
Analysts attribute the dramatic increase in Somali visitors to several factors. Improved flight connectivity between Somalia and India has made travel more accessible and convenient, with airlines expanding routes connecting Mogadishu to major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Visa procedures for Somali nationals have also become more streamlined, with online applications and faster processing times reducing barriers for travel. Additionally, awareness campaigns by Indian tourism authorities have actively promoted India as a destination for Somali travelers, highlighting cultural, historical, and business opportunities.
The surge in Somali visitors reflects broader trends of growing cultural and economic engagement between the two countries. India and Somalia have strengthened trade relations in sectors such as technology, pharmaceuticals, and education services. Somali students are increasingly pursuing higher education in Indian universities, attracted by affordable tuition fees, quality programs, and the country’s rich cultural diversity. Business travelers are also exploring investment opportunities and trade links with Indian companies, signaling a rising confidence among Somalis to engage internationally despite domestic security and economic challenges.
This trend demonstrates the Somali population’s growing global outlook and appetite for international experiences. Officials from both countries are reportedly considering additional initiatives to strengthen ties, including business forums, cultural exchange programs, and enhanced student scholarship schemes, which could further accelerate the growth of Somali travelers to India in the coming years.
Somalia’s remarkable rise as a top source of travelers to India highlights a unique and positive development amid the country’s ongoing domestic challenges. It signals not only increasing mobility and curiosity among Somali citizens but also expanding avenues for bilateral cooperation in tourism, education, and commerce.
