New Delhi: Turkey’s flourishing luxury wedding industry is facing a major setback after diplomatic tensions with India led to mass cancellations of Indian destination weddings, potentially causing losses of up to $90 million.
The crisis stems from Turkey’s public support for Pakistan during the India-Pakistan conflict following Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025. The political stance has triggered a boycott by Indian families and wedding planners, disrupting what had become a lucrative segment of Turkey’s tourism industry.
“Indian wedding travellers contribute over $140 million annually to Turkey’s tourism economy, and the impact of this shift is seismic,” said Nikhil Mahajan, senior representative of Kestone Utsav, a leading Indian wedding planning firm, according to a report by Financial Express.
Rapid Growth Meets Sudden Decline
Over recent years, Turkey had emerged as a top destination for lavish Indian weddings, offering a blend of heritage, luxury, and cost-effectiveness. In 2024, the country hosted 50 grand Indian weddings, each with budgets ranging from $3 million to $8 million, often involving around 500 guests over several days. These celebrations were a boon for local vendors, hospitality services, and tourism-linked businesses.
A typical Indian wedding in Turkey started at €350,000 ($385,000) for 100 guests, significantly higher than the cost of a local Turkish wedding, which usually ranges between $1,600 and $5,400. The sector witnessed exponential growth — from just 13 Indian weddings in 2018 to 50 in 2024, generating nearly $150 million last year.
Cancellations and Economic Impact
In the wake of heightened political tensions, 30 of the 50 Indian weddings scheduled for 2025 have been either cancelled or placed on hold. Combined with 2,000 tourist booking cancellations, the direct financial loss could reach up to $90 million.
Indian weddings had become a cornerstone of Turkey’s luxury tourism, contributing to 3% of its $3 billion wedding tourism revenue in 2024. The broader tourism sector, which earned $61.1 billion last year, is also expected to feel the ripple effects.
“These weddings featured celebrities and business elites, offering marketing value that money can’t buy,” Mahajan added.
Shift Toward Alternative Destinations
In response to the diplomatic fallout, Indian families are exploring alternative destinations. Italy and the UAE have emerged as favored international options, while domestic wedding hotspots like Udaipur, Jaipur, Goa, and Kerala are witnessing a surge in demand.
“At UTSAV, we’re seeing a clear shift. Families are prioritizing destinations that combine cultural connection, safety, and guest experience,” Mahajan noted.
The change marks a significant realignment in global wedding tourism trends, and Turkey risks losing its competitive edge in this highly lucrative market.
