Where Indians Live Abroad (2024 Estimates) – Top Countries and NRI Investment Guide

A Surprising Truth:

Did you know that over 32 million Indians live outside India—making it one of the largest diaspora populations in the world? From skyscrapers in Dubai to tech hubs in Silicon Valley, Indian footprints can be seen shaping industries and communities worldwide.

Have You Ever Wondered?

Why do so many Indians still dream of owning a piece of land back home—even after settling abroad for decades? Whether it's emotional roots or future planning, the connection to Indian soil runs deep.

What This Blog Covers:

In this guide, you’ll discover:

• Which countries have the highest Indian population in 2024
• Why NRIs invest in Indian real estate
• Property investment trends across regions and generations

Whether you’re working in Dubai or studying in Toronto, this guide will help you understand where Indians live globally—and how you can invest smartly in real estate back home.

Planning to invest in rental-focused cities? Here's a curated selection of live listings updated for 2025 — Explore now.

Indian Population Abroad – 2024 Estimates

Here’s a table showing the estimated Indian population in popular countries abroad:

Key Observations from the Diaspora

Gulf Countries – Labour & Skilled Migration

• Popular among Indians from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh
• Work in construction, oil & gas, logistics, and more
• Many plan to settle back and invest in home plots or apartments for family

Western Countries – Education & Career

• USA, Canada, UK, and Australia attract skilled professionals and students
• NRIs invest back home for:
• Family security
• Retirement plans
• Emotional reasons
• Preferred cities: Chennai, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Bengaluru

Historical Migration – Deep Roots

• Countries like Malaysia, South Africa, Mauritius, Trinidad
• Generational Indian families from colonial migration
• Continue to invest in ancestral lands or agricultural properties

Real Estate Insight for NRIs

Whether you're a software engineer in California or a business owner in Dubai, many NRIs look at Indian property as a stable, long-term asset.

Why NRIs Buy Property in India:

• Safe and tangible investment
• Future retirement home
• Rental income source
• Supporting family back home
• Emotional and cultural ties

NRI Property Investment Trends in 2024

Here’s what we’ve noticed:

• USA & Canada NRIs: Interested in luxury villas and smart flats in metro cities
• Gulf NRIs: Prefer buying land near their home villages in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Telangana
• Malaysian & African NRIs: Choose agricultural or heritage properties with long-term development potential

Looking to earn strong rental income from your property? Don’t miss our guide on the Best Indian Cities for High Rental Yields in 2025 – Top Locations for NRI Investors.

Convert Currency in Real Time

Unsure how much your foreign income is worth in Indian Rupees? Use the real-time currency converter tool on our site to plan your property investment smartly.

What’s my local currency worth in Indian Rupees?Try now.

Final Words

Across borders and generations, the Indian diaspora continues to stay connected to its roots. Whether you live in Toronto, Dubai, or Kuala Lumpur, owning a piece of your homeland is no longer a distant dream.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which country has the highest number of Indians abroad in 2024?

The United States has the largest Indian population abroad, with over 4.8 million Indians living there, followed by the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

2. Why do NRIs invest in property in India?

NRIs invest for various reasons — including family security, retirement planning, cultural roots, and long-term wealth building. Real estate remains a stable and emotional asset for many abroad.

3. Can NRIs buy agricultural land in India?

Generally, NRIs are not allowed to purchase agricultural land, plantation land, or farmhouses in India, unless inherited or gifted. Residential and commercial properties are permitted.

4. Which Indian cities are most preferred by NRIs for property investment in 2024?

Cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, and Kochi are popular due to strong infrastructure, IT hubs, and family ties to South Indian states.

5. How can I check how much my currency is worth in Indian Rupees?

You can use the live currency converter tool available on property platforms like ours to check real-time INR values before investing.

6. Is it possible to buy property in India while living abroad?

Yes, many platforms offer a fully digital process, allowing NRIs to browse, shortlist, and invest in properties from anywhere in the world.