● Almost 30% of Airbnb Hosts in India are women, who collectively earned over INR 2 billion (200
crores) in 2023, shaping the future of hospitality with inclusivity and economic opportunities
● Goa, Bengaluru, Delhi, Pune, Dehradun and Jaipur were the most preferred domestic
destinations by female guests in 2023
● Internationally, Indian female guests preferred to travel to London, Dubai, Toronto, Paris, New
York City, Milan, Rome, Bangkok
● Amongst the Indian women travellers, Millennials were leading the chart on travelling on Airbnb
last year
● 30% of Indian women guests travelled solo last year on Airbnb
This International Women's Day, Airbnb is celebrating the growing
community of women Hosts and female Guests who play a vital role in the hospitality sector. Embracing
this year’s International Women’s Day theme, ‘Inspire Inclusion’, Airbnb recognises the diverse and
dynamic ways in which women leverage the platform to foster economic opportunities, inclusivity and
entrepreneurship across India.
In 2023, women Hosts in India, constituting nearly 30% of the country’s Airbnb hosting community 1 , have
been instrumental in creating unique guest experiences. Indian women Hosts collectively earned over
INR 2 billion (approximately 200 crores / USD 28 million) in 2023 2 , showcasing the profound impact of
women in stimulating local economies and supporting community growth. These women not only offer
exceptional experiences to travellers but also empower others by creating job opportunities, especially for
those in underserved communities.
Talking about her hosting journey on Airbnb, Superhost Anooradha who has been hosting since 2017
said, “I find great fulfilment in engaging with individuals who share similar interests and values. This
passion prompted me to embark on my Airbnb journey seven years ago, initially hosting guests at the
retreat nestled within our holiday home. While the supplementary income has certainly been beneficial,
what truly resonates with me is the platform’s ability to foster meaningful connections with guests. These
connections, in my view, are immensely empowering. For any women considering embarking on their
own hosting venture, I encourage you to infuse your personal touch, warmth, and creativity in your home.
This is what ultimately creates a memorable and distinctive experience for guests.”
Sharing her story, Superhost Sumana said, “As a female residing in the vibrant city of Bhubaneswar,
hosting on Airbnb has led me to a path of inner strength while pursuing my passions and garnering
financial independence. Transitioning from a corporate job to becoming a full-time host has brought me
immense stability and peace. It allows me to forge meaningful connections with guests from all over the
country while immersing myself in their stories and experiences. The satisfaction of accommodating
guests’ needs and witnessing their joy remains a heartwarming reward for me. I look forward to more
such experiences to serve and connect with people and inspire more women to embark on this unique
journey of strength and resilience.
Talking about the role women are increasingly playing in enabling the platform and highlighting Airbnb’s
dedication to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and equitable community, Amanpreet Bajaj, General
Manager – Airbnb India, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan said, “Women play a vital role in
fueling economies, by driving growth & social transformation. At Airbnb, we are committed to creating an
inclusive, diverse, equitable community for our women Hosts & guests. Our commitment goes beyond
supporting individual hosts; we also collaborate with government partners to ensure communities
everywhere can thrive in our evolving travel landscape. By promoting safe, respectful, and welcoming
spaces, Airbnb aims to empower women hosts and travellers alike, envisioning travel as a powerful tool
for global empowerment and connection.”
On the other hand, Indian women travellers, particularly Millennials, are increasingly choosing Airbnb for
their travel needs 3 . In terms of choice of destinations for women guests, top domestic destinations
domestically in 2023 included Goa, Bengaluru, Delhi NCR, Pune, Dehradun, and Jaipur while
internationally, destinations like London, Dubai, Toronto, Paris, New York City, Milan, Rome, Bangkok
were popular 4 .
Last year, a large segment of the Indian women guests preferred to travel solo, or in duos. Infact, 30% of
the Indian women guests travelled solo in 2023 5 . National Parks, iconic cities, tropical, private rooms and
pools were the most booked categories by Indian women guests in 2023 6 .
Talking about travelling on Airbnb, Actor, Sayani Gupta shares,Over the past few years the ‘solo travel’
trend has been adopted by women all across India. For me personally, solo travel has always been my
source of solace, with Airbnb consistently serving as my preferred travel companion. Airbnb is not just a
place to stay but a gateway to embracing independence while forging new experiences and connections.
As a frequent solo traveller, Airbnb has enabled me to explore the world through diverse
accommodations, offering a unique lens on every journey, ensuring safety. This Women’s Day, I
commend Airbnb’s commitment to providing comfort for avid female travellers like myself, while also
empowering others with a platform to embark on their entrepreneurial journey as hosts.”
