Marriott Bets Big on India, Eyes Second-Largest Market Worldwide After US
Marriott International is significantly stepping up its expansion in India, with the hospitality giant expecting the country to become its second-largest market worldwide after the United States within the next three to four years. The company sees strong growth potential in India's domestic travel, business tourism and leisure segments, prompting it to rapidly expand beyond the country's biggest metropolitan cities.
Over 200 Hotels in the Pipeline
Marriott currently has more than 200 hotel projects in its India pipeline, representing over 30,000 additional rooms. Once these properties become operational, the company's room inventory in India is expected to nearly double, highlighting the scale of its long-term commitment to the market.
The company already operates around 230 hotels with more than 35,000 rooms across India and plans to expand its presence to smaller cities and emerging travel destinations. Marriott expects to enter its 100th Indian city next year, coinciding with the company's centennial celebrations.
India Could Overtake China and Mexico
The United States remains Marriott's biggest market, while India currently trails China and Mexico in terms of market size. However, Marriott President and CEO Anthony Capuano expects India to move ahead of those markets over the next few years.
The company's confidence is being driven by India's expanding middle class, increasing domestic travel and rising demand for both business and leisure accommodation. Marriott has also been increasing its presence outside major cities, allowing it to tap into new sources of demand.
Strong Deal-Making Momentum
Marriott signed more than 60 deals in India during the first half of 2026, the highest number among its Asia Pacific excluding China region during the period. The pace of expansion reflects the company's belief that India's hospitality sector still has considerable room for growth.
Marriott's strategy also includes offering different brands across price segments. The diversity of Indian consumers and the wide range of travel budgets provide the company with opportunities to introduce and expand luxury, premium, midscale and select-service brands.
Why India Is Important for Marriott
India's growing domestic tourism market is a major factor behind Marriott's expansion. The company has also identified opportunities in destinations beyond traditional business hubs, including spiritual tourism and emerging leisure markets.
Marriott's official development pipeline already lists numerous upcoming properties across Indian cities and destinations, ranging from Bengaluru and Mumbai to Udaipur, Lucknow, Gwalior, Haridwar and other locations.
With more than 200 properties in development and over 30,000 rooms planned, Marriott's India expansion could substantially reshape its global market ranking. If the company's projections materialise, India could move from its current position behind China and Mexico to become Marriott's second-largest global market after the US within three to four years
