Top Ten Countries with the Most Indian Population in 2024

India, with its rich cultural heritage and diverse populace, has seen its citizens migrate to various corners of the globe over the past few decades. 

Indians have established thriving communities worldwide, contributing significantly to the socio-economic fabric of their host countries. 

As of 2024, here are the top ten countries with the largest Indian populations.

1. United States

The United States hosts the largest Indian diaspora. With a population exceeding 4.9 million, Indian Americans are one of the fastest-growing ethnic groups in the country. 

Major cities like New York, San Francisco, Chicago, and Houston have significant Indian communities. 

The contributions of Indian Americans in fields such as technology, medicine, academia, and business are substantial, making them a vital part of the American mosaic.

2. United Arab Emirates

The UAE is home to over 3.5 million Indians, making them the largest expatriate group in the country. 

Indians in the UAE are involved in various sectors, including construction, healthcare, education, and finance. 

Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi have vibrant Indian communities, with numerous cultural and social organizations catering to their needs.

3. Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has a significant Indian population, estimated at around 2.5 million. 

Indians in Saudi Arabia primarily work in sectors like healthcare, engineering, and construction. 

The presence of a large number of Indian professionals and laborers has led to the establishment of Indian schools, cultural centers, and community associations.

4. Malaysia

Malaysia is home to around 2 million  people of Indian origin, primarily descendants of laborers brought during British colonial rule. 

The Indian community in Malaysia is concentrated in states like Selangor, Perak, and Penang. 

They have a profound influence on Malaysia's cultural landscape, particularly in festivals, cuisine, and traditional arts.

5. United Kingdom

The UK has a well-established Indian community of over 1.9 million people. 

The Indian diaspora in the UK includes a significant number of professionals, entrepreneurs, and students. 

Cities like London, Leicester, and Birmingham have substantial Indian populations, contributing richly to British society in various domains.

6. Canada

Canada's Indian population is estimated at 1.86 million, with a strong presence in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary. 

The Indian community in Canada is diverse, with significant contributions to the country's academic, professional, and business sectors. 

Indian festivals and cultural events are widely celebrated across Canada.

7. South Africa

South Africa has a historic Indian community, numbering around 1.56 million. 

Most South African Indians are descendants of indentured laborers brought to work in the sugar plantations of Natal in the 19th century. 

The Indian community has a profound impact on South African culture, politics, and economy, particularly in Durban and Johannesburg.

8. Myanmar

Myanmar is home to approximately 2.9 million  people of Indian descent. The Indian community in Myanmar dates back to the British colonial period. Despite facing challenges, the Indian population continues to contribute to Myanmar's economy, particularly in trade and commerce.

9. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has a significant population of Indian Tamils, numbering almost 2.3 million. 

Most are descendants of laborers brought to work in the tea plantations during the British colonial era. 

The Indian Tamil community in Sri Lanka plays a crucial role in the country's tea industry and has a distinct cultural identity.

10. Kuwait

Kuwait has a large Indian expatriate population, estimated at around 1,020,000. 

Indians in Kuwait are primarily employed in sectors such as construction, healthcare, and domestic services. 

The Indian community in Kuwait is well-organized, with numerous cultural associations and Indian schools catering to their needs.

The global Indian diaspora continues to grow and flourish, making significant contributions to their host countries while preserving their rich cultural heritage. 

These ten countries exemplify the diverse and dynamic presence of Indians abroad, highlighting their role as a vital part of the global community.