In light of recent geopolitical developments, Indian families and corporations are increasingly reconsidering Turkey and Azerbaijan as preferred destinations for weddings and corporate events. This shift follows the perceived support of these countries for Pakistan during the recent India-Pakistan conflict, leading to a significant decline in bookings and a surge in cancellations.
Travel platforms like MakeMyTrip have reported a 60% decrease in bookings and a 250% increase in cancellations for Turkey and Azerbaijan. EaseMyTrip has observed similar trends, with a 22% rise in cancellations for Turkey and 30% for Azerbaijan. Indian travelers are now opting for alternative destinations such as the UAE, Thailand, and various European countries, which are perceived as more politically neutral or aligned with India.
The Indian government’s stance has also influenced this trend. Authorities are considering measures to discourage tourism and film projects in Turkey and Azerbaijan, reflecting concerns over these countries’ support for Pakistan. This includes potential restrictions on destination weddings and film shoots, as well as a reevaluation of educational collaborations.
The economic impact on Turkey and Azerbaijan is notable, given the substantial revenue generated from Indian tourists and events. In 2024, Indian tourists spent over $400 million in these countries, with Turkey hosting approximately 3.3 lakh Indian visitors and Azerbaijan welcoming around 2.4 lakh. The current boycott and shift in preferences are expected to have significant repercussions on their tourism and hospitality sectors.
This development underscores how international political affiliations can influence private and commercial decisions, particularly in the event tourism sector.
