A recent survey by Skyscanner highlights a growing trend among Indian couples opting for destination weddings. According to the "Destination ‘I Do’" survey, an impressive 85% of Indian respondents have either had or are planning a destination wedding, with Gen Z leading the trend.

The shift towards destination weddings is notably strong among younger couples. Nearly half (49%) of Gen Z respondents wish to marry in a dream location, compared to 33% of Millennials. The influence of high-profile weddings, such as the Ambani wedding, has inspired many to plan grand celebrations, with 66% intending to host lavish pre-wedding events.

Mohit Joshi, Skyscanner’s Travel Trends and Destination Expert, commented, “Destination weddings are capturing the imagination of Indian couples, who are keen on creating unique experiences. Couples are investing in celebrations that reflect their dreams while balancing grandeur with practical planning.”

Top Destination Picks for Indian Weddings

Asia tops the list for Indian couples, with 48% eyeing destinations like Thailand, Japan, and the Maldives. These locations offer beautiful backdrops and are relatively close, making them convenient and cost-effective. Europe remains a favourite as well, with 31% of couples considering romantic spots like the UK, Spain, France, and Italy.

Goa leads as the top choice for a beach wedding, followed by Dubai for its glamorous allure. Bali and Bangkok are also popular for their tropical vibes and cultural experiences.

Diverse Wedding Themes

Indian couples are exploring a variety of wedding themes. A romantic beach celebration is preferred by 26% of respondents, while 20% opt for the regal charm of royal palace weddings in Jaipur or Udaipur. Scenic mountain locations such as Mussoorie, Munnar, and Switzerland attract 19%, with others considering glamorous city events in places like Dubai and New York.

Despite their willingness to spend, many couples are mindful of their budgets. Nearly half (45%) are prepared to increase their wedding budgets by up to 50% for a memorable destination wedding but are also exploring lesser-known destinations to avoid high prices. About 83% are open to off-the-beaten-path locations like Gokarna and Kalimpong.

Travel Trends and Wedding Planning

UAE national carriers are expanding their reach, now flying to 606 destinations globally. Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai, Air Arabia, and Wizz Air Abu Dhabi are leading this growth. Etihad aims to reach 125 destinations by 2030 and has seen a rise in passengers and fleet size this year.

Planning is crucial for destination weddings, with 62% of couples starting their preparations up to a year in advance. While 40% rely on professional wedding planners, 36% seek recommendations from friends and family, emphasizing the value of personal input.

Technology Assisting Wedding Planning

To aid in planning, Skyscanner offers tools like the Savvy Search feature, which helps users find ideal wedding destinations based on preferences. Joshi noted, “Savvy Search simplifies finding your dream wedding spot, acting like a personal planner.”

Anam Zubair, Director of Consumer Marketing at WeddingWire India, shared that there’s been a 13% increase in couples choosing destination weddings year-over-year. WeddingWire India’s platform provides over 73,000 venues and vendors along with free planning tools, ensuring a smooth experience for couples.

As destination weddings gain popularity, Indian couples are balancing dream celebrations with smart planning and budget-conscious decisions, proving that a dream wedding abroad is achievable with the right tools and flexibility.