Top 10 countries hosting the largest Indian communities
In an era defined by migration, innovation, and cultural exchange, the Indian diaspora stands as one of the most influential and widespread in the world.
A data visualisation from The World in Maps based on data from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (2024) reveals the top 10 countries where Indian communities have taken root, and the numbers aren’t just impressive; they tell a deeper story of ambition, resilience, and transnational impact.
The Global Top 10: Where Indians call home
- United States – 5.4 Million
- United Arab Emirates (UAE) – 3.6 Million
- Malaysia – 2.9 Million
- Canada – 2.9 Million
- Saudi Arabia – 2.5 Million
- Myanmar – 2.0 Million
- United Kingdom – 1.9 Million
- South Africa – 1.7 Million
- Sri Lanka – 1.6 Million
- Kuwait – 996,000
The United States: Home to the world's largest Indian diaspora
The U.S. hosts 5.4 million people of Indian origin, a result of liberal immigration policies since the 1960s, the boom in tech-related jobs, and an education system that attracts tens of thousands of Indian students annually. Indian Americans have ascended to key positions in politics (e.g., Vice President Kamala Harris). They also boast the highest median household income of any ethnic group in the U.S.
UAE and the Gulf: Labour powerhouses
With 3.6 million Indians, the UAE ranks second, followed closely by Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. The Gulf region's vast Indian communities are primarily composed of migrant workers, many in construction, logistics, healthcare, and services, who send billions in remittances back to India annually. These ties are not just economic but social, influencing food, language, and festivals across the Gulf.
Malaysia: Colonial legacy meets cultural continuity
Malaysia and Myanmar’s sizable Indian populations are rooted in colonial-era labour migration under British rule. In Malaysia, Indians—especially Tamils—have significantly contributed to education, politics, and entertainment. Despite facing socio-political challenges, Indian Malaysians remain a vocal minority with deep historical roots.
The Commonwealth Connection: Canada and the UK
With 2.9 million and 1.9 million Indians, respectively, Canada and the UK host diasporas that balance tradition and modernity. In both countries, Indian communities are known for their strong civic presence, entrepreneurial prowess, and cultural vibrancy—from Punjabi music topping charts to Indian-origin politicians occupying cabinet posts.
Africa and the Subcontinent: Ties that bind
South Africa (1.7 million) and Sri Lanka (1.6 million) reflect a longer historical connection dating back to indentured labour and early traders. Today, Indian South Africans and Indo-Sri Lankans are integral to their nations’ identities, contributing to commerce, cuisine, and politics—epitomised by figures like Mahatma Gandhi, whose early activism began in Durban.
