Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), despite its growing affluent population, faces a significant deficit in public recreational and tourism infrastructure, as highlighted by a recent Niti Ayog report. With an estimated 30% of MMR households projected to earn over INR 12 lakh by 2030, the region lacks adequate public spaces, with less than 1.6 square metres of open space per capita—far behind global benchmarks like Singapore’s 8 sqm.
The report outlines MMR’s untapped potential to become a global tourism hub, aiming to welcome 150 million air passengers annually by 2030. Currently, the region hosts 7.5 million tourists annually, but most stay for less than two days due to limited attractions. MMR boasts an underutilised 300 km coastline, heritage sites, and Bollywood, yet the lack of infrastructure prevents it from capitalising on these assets. Niti Ayog has proposed a $7 billion private investment, supplemented by Rs 8000 crore from the government, to overhaul MMR’s tourism. Key areas of focus include coastal, heritage, wellness, and event tourism. The region could generate up to $60 billion in tourism revenues by 2030 if infrastructure upgrades succeed.
Comparatively, MMR’s tourism potential rivals that of Dubai or Singapore, but to achieve global status, investment in world-class amenities, hotels, and entertainment venues is crucial. One major strategy includes developing world-class marinas in Navi Mumbai, bolstering MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) tourism with an additional 15,000 hotel rooms, and revamping the outdated Film City in Goregaon. MMR’s historic sites like Raigad Fort and landmarks like Crawford Market require extensive restoration, while Mumbai’s cultural icons must undergo revamps to attract premium tourists. The proposal also highlights a need for comprehensive sporting and entertainment infrastructure, such as golf courses, multi-sport academies, and hosting global music festivals like Sunburn and Lollapalooza.
The creation of culinary districts and resorts near beaches could position MMR as a global tourism giant. This investment could unlock the region’s full potential, bridging the gap between its current limited offerings and the experiences offered by cities like Singapore. If executed well, MMR could emerge as one of the world’s leading tourism destinations by 2030, transforming its economy and enhancing quality of life for both locals and visitors.
