Somalia leads global growth in citizens traveling to India
Somalia has recorded the highest growth in the number of its citizens traveling to India, according to a recent report released by India’s Ministry of Tourism. The report indicates that the number of Somali travelers to India has increased dramatically over the past few years, making Somalia the country with the largest triple-digit growth in arrivals during the period.
According to the statistics, 5,044 Somalis traveled to India in 2019, and this number surged to 12,320 in 2024, reflecting a 144% increase. Although there was a slight decrease from the peak of 16,607 travelers recorded in 2023, Somalia continues to hold the top position among countries whose citizens visit India the most.
The report also compared Somalia’s growth with other countries. Cambodia experienced an 81% increase, Kazakhstan 72%, and Vietnam 61%, but none of these countries matched the unprecedented growth observed in Somalia. Analysts note that the surge in Somali travelers is significant not only in absolute numbers but also as an indicator of changing international travel trends.
A key factor behind the rise in Somali travel to India is medical tourism. Thousands of Somali citizens travel to India each year for advanced medical treatment, particularly for diseases such as cancer, which have become increasingly prevalent in Somalia. The country’s healthcare system lacks the infrastructure and facilities to handle complex medical cases, prompting many Somalis to seek specialized care abroad. India, with its well-established medical facilities and relatively affordable treatment, has become a preferred destination.
Beyond healthcare, other motivations for travel include education, business, and family visits, but medical reasons remain the primary driver. Somali officials and travel agencies note that this trend reflects both the growing awareness among citizens of global healthcare options and the close diplomatic and cultural ties between Somalia and India.
Experts suggest that the continued increase in Somali travelers to India could have broader economic and social implications. It highlights the need for Somalia to strengthen its healthcare sector to meet domestic demand while also opening potential opportunities for bilateral cooperation in medical education, healthcare services, and tourism.
The report positions Somalia as a new benchmark for countries experiencing rapid growth in outbound travel to India, signaling a shift in global travel patterns and emphasizing the importance of India as a hub for healthcare and professional services for East African travelers.
