Who needs a date when you have a boarding pass? This Valentine’s Day weekend, Indian travellers are rewriting the rules of romance, with solo trips recording a staggering 185% surge in Airbnb searches. And where are they headed? Dubai, which has emerged as the top choice across solo, duo, and group travellers, is recording a 220% year-on-year growth in searches.
Table for one, please
It seems Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples anymore. As per the report by Airbnb, Indian solo travellers are embracing the freedom of exploring new destinations, and Dubai is leading the pack. The city’s proximity, luxury, and ease of access make it a preferred choice, followed by domestic favourites like Mumbai, New Delhi, and Goa, and international hotspot Bangkok.
Couples and groups join the travel wave
While solo travellers are on the rise, duo travellers—Airbnb’s term for couples—aren’t far behind, with a 60% increase in searches. Dubai remains their top pick, followed by Tromsø, Paris, New Delhi, and Goa—a mix of snowy romance and tropical charm.
Meanwhile, group travel has also surged by nearly 40%, with Dubai again topping the list, followed by Mumbai, Goa, Rovaniemi, and Jaipur. This suggests that more Indians are choosing to celebrate with friends, family, or even like-minded travellers, rather than sticking to traditional couple getaways.
Dubai’s all-round appeal
Whether it’s a solo traveler soaking in the skyline, a couple enjoying a romantic getaway, or a group exploring the city’s nightlife, Dubai has positioned itself as a one-size-fits-all destination. The city’s beaches, vibrant nightlife, and luxury accommodations make it a hit across demographics.
From cozy apartments to luxury villas
For those looking to make the most of their Valentine’s getaway, Airbnb has highlighted a range of unique stays:
Solo travelers can enjoy a stylish beachside apartment in Dubai, a minimalist escape in New Delhi, or a charming boutique stay in Goa.
Couples can unwind in a high-rise apartment with panoramic views of Dubai.
Groups can book a villa amidst a farm in Goa, complete with a private pool and open spaces.
Travel over tradition?
With shifting preferences towards experiences over gifts, the rise in solo and group travel suggests that Indians are redefining Valentine’s Day. Whether it’s self-love, adventure, or simply an excuse to pack a bag and explore, this trend signals a growing shift in how travel is shaping celebrations.
Love may be in the air, but so are flights. And this year, it seems more Indian travellers are choosing a passport stamp over a candlelit dinner.