Mumbai: Indian women hosts on Airbnb earned over ₹260 crore in 2024, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of hospitality with inclusivity and economic empowerment, according to a statement released by Airbnb.
Women account for almost 30% of Airbnb hosts in India, and their impact on the platform has been significant. Over 56% of these women hosts received 5-star reviews, highlighting their exceptional hospitality skills.
Moreover, 35% of guest-favorite listings in India are hosted by women, underscoring their ability to create top-rated travel experiences.
Empowering Women Through Travel and Hosting
Airbnb’s India and Southeast Asia Country Head, Amanpreet Singh Bajaj, emphasized the role of women in redefining hospitality and achieving financial independence through hosting.
"Our data shows that women hosts are delivering exceptional hospitality while achieving financial independence, and women travelers are increasingly exploring the world with confidence. This International Women's Day, we recognize that we must collectively accelerate our efforts. By empowering women hosts and travelers, we're committed to creating a more equitable future for generations to come," Bajaj said.
Women Travelers Leading the Way
Beyond hosting, Indian women travelers are increasingly choosing Airbnb for their unique travel experiences.
- Millennials (born between 1985-1995) led the way in Airbnb bookings, followed by Gen Z travelers (born between 1997-2012).
- Women travelers prefer to travel in pairs or groups, with trips typically lasting two to six nights, reflecting a trend toward short yet immersive experiences.
Top Destinations for Indian Women Travelers in 2024
Domestic Travel Trends
-
Goa remained the most popular destination for Indian women travelers.
- Other top domestic destinations included Delhi, Bengaluru, Pune, and Jaipur.
- Varanasi saw a 75% increase in bookings compared to 2023, making it the fastest-growing domestic travel spot, followed by Ahmedabad and Mathura.
International Travel Trends
-
London was the top international destination for Indian women travelers in 2024, followed by Dubai, Bangkok, Paris, and Rome.
- Tbilisi (Georgia) was the fastest-growing international destination, witnessing a 145% surge in bookings compared to 2023, followed by Kuala Lumpur, Phuket, Bangkok, and Sydney.
A Growing Market for Women in Travel and Hospitality
As Airbnb continues to expand, Indian women are leveraging the platform to not only earn but also explore the world on their own terms. With a rise in financial independence, growing confidence in solo and group travel, and increasing hospitality excellence, women in India are reshaping the travel landscape for future generations.
