Indonesian tourism soars in 2024 with visa-free access to 79 countries including Brazil, Japan, Malaysia and Qatar

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Indonesian passport holders enjoy visa-free access to 79 countries, significantly boosting global travel and tourism across various sectors.

Indonesian passport holders can travel visa-free to 79 countries, significantly improving the global travel and tourism industry, whether for business travel, leisure travel, luxury travel, or meetings and events. This substantial travel facilitation has spurred remarkable growth in Indonesia’s outbound tourism, driven by economic progress and changing consumer preferences. This trend underscores the growing enthusiasm of Indonesians to explore international destinations.

Countries where Indonesian passport holders can travel without a visa:

Vietnam, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Uganda, Bahamas, Cambodia, Hong Kong SAR of China, Brunei, Samoa, Myanmar, Ecuador, Mozambique, Turkey, Mauritius, Angola, Japan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, Micronesia, Peru, Belarus, Sierra Leone, Cook Islands, Kyrgyzstan, Dominica, Laos, Fiji, Uzbekistan, Rwanda, Somalia, VOA, Namibia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Guyana, Ethiopia, Oman, Armenia, Maldives, Tajikistan, Serbia, Chile, Barbados, Colombia, Suriname, Morocco, Tanzania, Cape Verde Islands, Pakistan, Palau Islands, Burundi, Qatar, Marshall Islands, Comoros Islands, Djibouti, Mauritania, Singapore, Philippines, Gabon, Mali, Seychelles, Guinea-Bissau, Madagascar, Haiti, Comoros, Azerbaijan, Timor-Leste, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Malawi, Comoros Islands, Nicaragua, Macao (SAR of China), Jordan, Thailand, Niue, Kenya, Togo, Kiribati.

Economic factors

The expansion of the middle class and rising disposable incomes have played a significant role in this growth. With greater financial stability, more Indonesians can afford to travel abroad. In addition, the proliferation of low-cost airlines has made international travel more accessible and affordable, improving connectivity to a wide range of global destinations.

Popular destinations

According to GlobalData’s Travel & Tourism in Indonesia 2023 report, the most popular destinations for travelers from the country are Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Thailand, and Japan, among others. Malaysia attracts visitors with its cultural familiarity, shopping opportunities, and delicious cuisine. Singapore, due to its proximity, modern attractions, and shopping experiences, is another top choice. Thailand offers beautiful beaches, stunning temples, and affordable leisure activities, making it a top choice for many. Beyond Asia, Japan and South Korea attract Indonesian tourists with their unique pop culture, technological advancements, and historical sites. Europe, known for its historical monuments, diverse cultures, and scenic beauty, is also becoming increasingly popular among Indonesian travelers.

Travel Motivations

Indonesians travel abroad for a variety of reasons. Leisure is the main motivation for travelers, who seek shopping experiences, culinary delights, cultural explorations, and natural landscapes. Business and education also drive overseas tourism, with more Indonesians exploring international business opportunities and pursuing education and training programs abroad.

Facilitating factors

Several factors are driving the growth of Indonesia’s outbound tourism. Simplified visa application procedures and expanded visa waiver arrangements have made it easier for Indonesians to travel abroad. In addition, travel agencies are offering attractive travel packages and tailor-made itineraries to suit travelers’ preferences, thereby encouraging international travel.

Data information

According to UNWTO data, Indonesia’s outbound departures totaled 3.54 million in 2022, an increase from the previous year. The number of outbound departures in 2021 was the lowest in the past ten years, highlighting a significant rebound in Indonesians’ interest in international travel.

Impact of outbound tourism

Indonesian tourism contributes significantly to the global tourism industry, boosting international tourism revenue and demand. In addition, it promotes cultural exchange and understanding, strengthening international relations and fostering mutual appreciation of different cultures.

Indonesian outbound tourism is a testament to the country’s economic progress and the growing aspirations of its people. This trend, which continues to grow, will not only benefit the global tourism industry, but also foster greater cultural exchanges and mutual understanding.