- Airbnb reported that India bookings jumped 60 per cent as the number of first-time users doubled.
- Airbnb raised its full-year forecast due to strong travel demand.
Airbnb's strong performance in Q2 2026 reflects a significant surge in travel demand, particularly in India, where bookings rose by 60% compared to the previous year. The number of first-time Indian users more than doubled, indicating a growing interest in unique travel experiences.
Amanpreet Singh Bajaj, Airbnb’s Country Head for India and Southeast Asia, noted that the company is witnessing ongoing momentum in India, especially from first-time guests. He stated, “Travellers increasingly explored distinctive stays and experiences on the platform.”
Globally, first-time bookers increased by 11%, marking the strongest growth rate in four years, with India, Brazil, and Japan leading the way. This growth contributed to Airbnb's overall success, with revenue climbing 17% year on year to $3.6 billion and Gross Booking Value rising 16% to $27.2 billion.
The surge in bookings aligns with a broader trend of increased travel demand across the Asia Pacific region, where nights and seats booked rose in the high teens year on year. Japan also experienced high-teens growth in origin net nights, while average daily rates in the region increased by 1%.
“Revenue rose 17 per cent to $3.6 billion, with Gross Booking Value up 16 per cent to $27.2 billion. First-time bookers globally grew 11 per cent, the strongest in four years, led by India, Brazil and Japan.”
