Bintan Records 94% Growth in Indian Visitors in February 2026.
Bintan Island has had a great start to 2026, building on its increasing attractiveness among Indian tourists, thanks to the increased need for short-haul and experience-led vacations. India’s awareness and demand for Bintan increased significantly in February 2026 compared to February 2025, by around 94%. Additionally, data showed a roughly 40% increase in arrivals in February 2026 compared to January 2026, which is consistent with Q1 travel patterns from India.
As the season and year approach, TAs are increasingly adding Bintan to their Singapore itineraries, allowing travellers to visit two countries in one trip. This is similar to outbound travel from India, where shorter, multi-destination vacations are becoming more popular.
In order to increase awareness, enhance product familiarity, and establish the appropriate channels and partners inside Bintan for convenient access, VFS Global, which represents Bintan Island in India, has been aggressively promoting the destination in major Indian cities.
“Travel intent among Indian outbound travellers is becoming more occasion-driven and experience-driven, with trips now planned around particular interests like wellness, fitness, and outdoor activities rather than standalone leisure.” According to several industry reports, Indian travellers are now taking two to three international trips a year, frequently coinciding with long weekends and seasonal experiences. This is also reflected in an increase in short-duration, repeat international travel, according to Abdul Wahab, Chief Operating Officer, Bintan Resorts.
This change is reflected in Bintan’s expanding schedule of hallmark events, which provide organised travel triggers that go beyond conventional beach vacations. In addition to drawing specialised audiences, events like the Bintan Marathon and Bintan Regatta will also encourage longer stays and repeat business.
