Infrastructure Challenges Prompt Gen Z Concert Travelers to Seek International Destinations
Srinagar~ A recent study conducted by Dr. Jateen Rajput, Dean and Executive Director of Bhavan’s College MSEED – Management School of Events and Experience Design, reveals a growing trend among India’s Gen Z population where live music and cultural events play a significant role in their travel decisions. However, due to limitations in domestic infrastructure and pricing, an increasing number of young travelers are opting for international destinations.
The study indicates that 62% of India’s Gen Z now prioritize trips centered around concerts and music festivals. The term “outbound arbitrage” is introduced to describe the pattern where young travelers prefer cities like Singapore and destinations in the UAE over Indian cities, citing reasons such as limited venue capacity, surge pricing, and logistical challenges at home.
According to the findings, young Indians dedicate a substantial portion of their monthly income, ranging from 21% to 40%, towards travel for concert-related experiences, considering them as valuable social and personal investments. More than half (53%) of the respondents choose to extend their stay beyond the event, contributing to additional spending in areas such as hotels, food and beverage, transportation, and retail.
The study also highlights that international destinations are attracting a significant share of this spending due to streamlined visa processes, consistent pricing models, and purpose-built venues. While major events in India stimulate economic activity, they also reveal challenges in urban mobility, accommodation, and crowd management.
One notable observation is the surge in hotel rates in overseas concert destinations, with some parts of the UAE experiencing a price hike of up to 300% during peak events. In contrast, Indian cities struggle with issues such as last-mile transportation, parking availability, and accommodation shortages during high-demand periods.
Rajput argues that concerts and festivals have transitioned from mere entertainment options to symbols of identity and social status for young Indians. Despite the significant economic impact of past events in India, the study suggests that coordination gaps have led to price fluctuations, overcrowding, and a shift in demand towards foreign destinations.
“Outbound concert travel has already resulted in over ₹136 crore in lost domestic opportunities,” Rajput remarked, emphasizing the need for policy interventions and infrastructure improvements. With 62% of Gen Z respondents planning music-focused trips in 2026, the study predicts a further intensification of this trend, posing both economic prospects and competitive challenges for Indian cities.
Bhavan’s College MSEED, a creative business institute specializing in events and experiential design, offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs affiliated with the University of Mumbai.
