The Indian diaspora is one of the largest and most influential in the world. Scattered across the globe, Indians have left an indelible mark on the economies, politics, cultures, and cuisines of their adopted homelands. Some arrived centuries ago as traders, laborers, and professionals, while others migrated more recently in search of education and career opportunities. Today, there are over 30 million people of Indian origin living outside India, according to India's Ministry of External Affairs (May 2024). Here is a look at the countries hosting the largest Indian communities.
United States - 5.4 million
The United States is home to the largest number of Indians living abroad. Indian Americans are among the most successful immigrant groups, excelling in information technology, medicine, education, business, and politics. Thriving communities in New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Dallas, and New Jersey celebrate festivals like Diwali, which have gained mainstream popularity.
United Arab Emirates - 3.6 million
India and the UAE share deep historical and economic ties. Indians form the largest expatriate group in the UAE, playing vital roles in construction, retail, finance, healthcare, and IT. Indian culture is visible everywhere, from restaurants and schools to temples and businesses in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The geographical proximity further strengthens these bonds.
Malaysia - 2.9 million
Most Malaysian Indians descend from migrants who arrived during British colonial rule to work on plantations, railways, and infrastructure projects. Today, they are an integral part of Malaysia's multicultural fabric, contributing to festivals, temples, cuisine, and language. Neighborhoods like Brickfields in Kuala Lumpur, known as Little India, showcase the community's vibrancy.
Canada - 2.9 million
Canada has emerged as a top destination for Indian immigrants in recent decades. Major cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Brampton host large Indian communities comprising students, professionals, entrepreneurs, and families. Indian festivals, places of worship, and businesses have become prominent features of Canada's multicultural landscape.
Saudi Arabia - 2.5 million
Indians in Saudi Arabia are primarily employed in construction, engineering, healthcare, and services. They have been instrumental in the kingdom's development, supported by geographic proximity and centuries-old trade relations.
Myanmar - 2.0 million
The Indian community in Myanmar is one of the oldest in Southeast Asia. Large-scale migration from India to Burma occurred during British rule for trade, administration, and labor. Despite political changes, Indian culture persists in cities like Yangon.
United Kingdom - 1.9 million
The British Indian diaspora is one of the largest in the UK. Post-World War II migration helped fill labor shortages. Today, British Indians are prominent in business, politics, healthcare, education, and the arts. Indian cuisine, especially dishes like chicken tikka masala, has become a national favorite. Key populations reside in London, Leicester, and Birmingham.
South Africa - 1.7 million
Indian settlers first arrived in South Africa in 1860 to work on sugar plantations in Natal. Over time, they diversified into business and politics. Mahatma Gandhi spent over two decades in South Africa, developing ideas that later shaped India's freedom struggle.
Sri Lanka - 1.6 million
Indians and Sri Lankans share millennia-old ties through trade, religion, and culture. Many Indian Tamils in Sri Lanka are descendants of laborers brought during British rule to work on tea estates.
Kuwait - 996,000
Though smaller in absolute numbers, Kuwait hosts one of the largest Indian populations relative to its own population in the Gulf region. Indians work across healthcare, engineering, education, hospitality, and business.
