Resurfacing a March move: Airbnb's experiences push and 35% India domestic growth
In March 2025, CFO Ellie Mertz said Airbnb planned to expand beyond accommodation from May 2025, with local experiences a focus. India was among its fastest-growing markets, with domestic growth of 35% year on year in the December quarter.
The development
Airbnb reported 35 per cent year-over-year domestic growth in India in the December quarter. It plans to expand beyond accommodations starting May this year, focusing on local experiences, homestays and government partnerships in one of its fastest-growing markets.
The numbers
- 35 per cent
- December quarter
- May this year
Why it matters to operators and investors
Build local-experience supply and cross-selling capabilities in India ahead of Airbnb’s planned May 2025 expansion beyond accommodation, supported by 35% year-on-year domestic growth in the December quarter.
What to watch next
- Actual rollout timing and the number of Indian destinations and experience categories launched.
- Experience attachment to accommodation bookings, repeat purchases and average transaction value, if disclosed.
- Supplier commissions, promotional subsidies and evidence of exclusive inventory.
- Whether India's reported domestic growth remains strong beyond the December quarter.
- Cancellation rates, customer complaints and activity-specific safety or licensing requirements.
The counter-case
India's 35% domestic growth could reflect a small base rather than a material earnings driver. It also does not validate demand for experiences, where supplier recruitment, quality control and customer acquisition could dilute margins before meaningful revenue emerges.