The landscape of Indian matrimonial celebrations is undergoing a significant transformation as increasing numbers of couples opt for international destinations, with the United Arab Emirates consolidating its status as a premier choice for luxury weddings. According to comprehensive data analysis by Policybazaar covering travel insurance patterns from 2023 to 2025, destination weddings have demonstrated consistent growth, reflecting a fundamental shift in Indian travel behavior.
The UAE’s appeal lies in its world-class luxury venues and exceptional international connectivity, making it particularly attractive for multi-generational wedding parties. Meanwhile, Vietnam and Sri Lanka are emerging as popular cost-effective alternatives for budget-conscious families seeking overseas celebrations.
European destinations including Italy, Spain, and Greece are attracting smaller wedding groups with higher per-capita spending, while Oman and the Maldives remain favored for intimate family ceremonies. Thailand maintains its position as the most preferred destination overall, benefiting from geographical proximity, streamlined visa processes, and well-established wedding infrastructure specifically catering to Indian ceremonial traditions.
The research reveals that wedding-related travel insurance demand closely follows India’s traditional marriage calendar rather than conventional holiday seasons. The most substantial increase occurred between November 1 and December 15, with purchases surging 30% from 2023 to 2024, followed by an 8% increase from 2024 to 2025. Similar seasonal patterns were observed during January-March and July-August wedding periods.
Demographic analysis shows that travelers aged 25-34 accounted for 40% of insurance policies, followed by those aged 45-60 at 35%. Senior travelers above 60 years constituted 25% of buyers, driving increased demand for comprehensive medical coverage and pre-existing condition protection. This multi-generational travel pattern underscores the inclusive nature of Indian destination weddings, which increasingly involve entire families rather than just the marrying couple.