Over 35 million Indians live abroad, shaping global economies and cultures across continents
India’s tradition of migration is deeply rooted in history and continues to shape global communities today. Whether driven by education, work, or family ties, millions of Indians have built successful lives outside the country, forming one of the most dynamic and widespread diasporas in the world, reported mypunepulse.com.
India now boasts the world’s largest overseas population, with more than 35 million people of Indian origin living abroad. These communities contribute significantly to their adopted countries—economically, socially, and culturally—while remaining connected to their Indian roots.
Here are the top 10 countries with the highest Indian populations outside India:
- United States – Over 5.4 Million
The U.S. is home to the largest Indian diaspora globally, including both NRIs and PIOs. Highly influential in technology, medicine, education, and politics, Indian Americans are among the most affluent and educated ethnic groups in the U.S., especially prominent in California, New Jersey, New York, and Texas.
- United Arab Emirates – Around 3.6 Million
Nearly a third of the UAE’s population is Indian. From laborers to CEOs, Indians power many sectors like construction, healthcare, and retail. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are cultural hubs for the diaspora.
- Malaysia – Around 2.9 Million
One of the oldest Indian communities overseas, largely of Tamil origin, contributes to business, education, law, and the arts. Indian festivals like Thaipusam and Deepavali are widely celebrated.
- Canada – Approximately 2.8 to 2.9 Million
Indian Canadians thrive in academia, healthcare, public service, and entrepreneurship. The community, especially Punjabi Sikhs, is most concentrated in Ontario and British Columbia and plays a growing role in Canadian politics.
From Silicon Valley to Dubai and Durban, Indians abroad are excelling across professions while preserving cultural identity.
- Saudi Arabia – Around 2.5 Million
Since the 1970s, Indian professionals and workers have played key roles in Saudi Arabia’s development. Despite strict social norms, Indians remain vital in infrastructure, education, and healthcare sectors, contributing heavily in remittances.
- Myanmar – Over 2 Million (Estimated)
With colonial-era roots, Indian-origin communities in Myanmar are concentrated in Yangon and Mandalay. Though facing citizenship issues, they maintain their identity through commerce, culture, and religion.
- United Kingdom – Around 1.9 Million
The UK’s Indian community is influential in politics, medicine, and business. Festivals like Diwali are now mainstream. Indian-origin individuals hold key roles in Parliament and civil service.
- South Africa – About 1.7 Million
Indians in South Africa, especially in Durban, are descendants of indentured laborers and merchants. They have played pivotal roles in anti-apartheid activism, and now lead in education, business, and governance.
- Sri Lanka – Around 1.6 Million
Primarily Indian Tamils brought for plantation work, the community continues to shape the tea and rubber industries. Despite historical challenges, they have integrated into Sri Lankan culture and politics.
- Kuwait – Around 1 Million
With a strong presence in oil, retail, healthcare, and construction, Indians in Kuwait form one of the largest expat groups. Though many are temporary workers, their cultural footprint is strong, and remittances remain vital to India.
From policy-making in Washington to retail empires in Dubai, Indians abroad continue to leave an enduring mark on global landscapes. As migration trends evolve, so too does the global Indian identity, blending tradition and modernity with a spirit of resilience.
