Building on its growing appeal among Indian travellers, Bintan Island has recorded a strong start to 2026, driven by rising demand for short-haul & experience-led getaways. With an approx. increase of 94% in Feb 2026, v/s Feb 2025, Bintan saw marked a growth in both awareness and demand from India. Data also indicated an approx. 40% increase in arrivals in Feb 2026 v/s Jan 2026, reflecting Q1 travel trends from India.
As one gears up for the season and year, Bintan has increasingly been included as an extension to Singapore itineraries offered by TAs, offering a combination of two countries in a single trip. This mirrors the Indian outbound travel, where shorter, multi-destination holidays are gaining preference. Bintan Island represented in India by VFS Global, has been actively promoting the destination in key cities of India to strengthen awareness, improve product familiarity and introduce the right channels and partners within Bintan for easy access.
‘Travel intent among Indian outbound travellers is becoming increasingly occasion-led and experience- driven, with trips now planned around specific interests such as fitness, wellness and outdoor activities rather than standalone leisure. This is also reflected in a rise in short-duration, repeat international travel, with multiple industry reports indicating that Indian travellers are now taking 2–3 international trips annually, often aligned with long weekends and seasonal experiences, said Mr Abdul Wahab, Chief Operating Officer, Bintan Resorts.
Bintan’s growing calendar of signature events is aligned with this shift, offering structured travel triggers that go beyond traditional beach holidays. Events such as the Bintan Marathon, Bintan Regatta etc will not only attract niche segments but also contribute to longer stays and repeat visitation.
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