As per a report by Ebix Travels from June 2026, a global travel technology firm and omni-channel travel exchange, 74% of Indian organizations anticipate an uptick in business travel over the coming year, while 68% have identified cost optimization as a crucial focus in their travel programs.
A significant area of corporate travel is MICE—Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions.
This segment encompasses corporate events such as leadership meetings, employee incentive trips, conferences, trade shows, and exhibitions.
MICE travel entails a variety of services, including transportation, lodging, venues, event planning, and destination management. Businesses utilize these events to enhance employee engagement, facilitate business discussions, promote networking, and foster stakeholder relationships.
What is driving interest in domestic MICE?
Historically, companies have opted for both domestic and international locations for MICE activities. However, experts indicate that domestic sites are gaining traction due to factors like cost-effectiveness, connectivity, ease of organization, and operational simplicity.
Anshul Bhargava, Founder & Chairman of Black Rock Hotels & Resorts, a hotel management and brand franchising firm from Jaipur, Rajasthan, mentioned that while cost is a consideration, it’s not the only one influencing destination selection.
“Hosting an event within India may allow companies to save 20-30% on expenses due to reduced travel and logistics based on the chosen location and group size. However, factors like operational predictability, connectivity, and execution capabilities for large-scale events are equally crucial,” he stated.
Bhargava added that MICE budgets have remained robust, with organizations concentrating more on the value gained from these events.
“Instead of slashing budgets, firms are investing more in enhancing delegate experiences and deriving greater value from local venues,” he continued.
Companies seek more than just cost savings
Kush Kapoor, CEO of Roseate Hotels and Resorts, part of Bird Hospitality—India’s Bird Group—highlighted that the transition to domestic MICE is spurred by a blend of cost-effectiveness, operational ease, and certainty.
“Hosting events in India not only saves companies on international travel, visa fees, and currency exchange but also offers the advantage of simpler planning, increased delegate engagement, and reduced logistical challenges,” Kapoor stated.
He mentioned that depending on the chosen destination and size of the event, companies could optimize overall event expenses by 20-40% when selecting premier domestic locations over comparable international ones.
According to Kapoor, several organizations are redirecting these savings to enhance experiences, technology, entertainment, and employee engagement efforts.
Preferred destinations with solid connectivity and infrastructure
MICE events necessitate venues, accommodation capacity, connectivity, and supportive infrastructure. This has led destinations with well-developed hospitality ecosystems to become attractive for corporate gatherings.
Bhargava noted that Jaipur has experienced a surge in demand due to its air connectivity, hospitality facilities, and ability to merge business activities with leisure offerings.
“Cities that are already prepared for events, like Jaipur, have seen significant interest due to their superb air links, hospitality infrastructures suitable for large-scale functions, and recreational opportunities,” he added.
Importance of advance planning
The growth in domestic MICE events has also influenced how organizations plan gatherings, with hotels noting an increase in early inquiries for major conferences and incentive programs.
Kapoor mentioned that companies are securing bookings earlier to obtain preferred dates, venues, and room availability, especially for extensive events.
He also pointed out a shift in event formats, with numerous organizations opting for shorter two-to-three-night programs focused on productivity and engagement.
The evolving MICE landscape
Experts suggest that companies are now prioritizing experiences alongside traditional business meetings. Wellness activities, local experiences, team-building exercises, and curated dining options are being integrated into some corporate itineraries.
