A Global Stage: Tourism Opportunities during the Olympics 2036 in Ahmedabad

As India prepares its ambitious bid to host the 2036 Summer Olympics, Ahmedabad in Gujarat has emerged as the proposed primary host city. In October 2023, India formally submitted its interest to the International Olympic Committee (IOC), with Gujarat’s largest city taking the lead role. This event represents more than a sports tournament — it symbolizes the rise of Gujarat on the global tourism stage. Hosting the Olympics could not only transform Ahmedabad’s urban and sports infrastructure but also significantly uplift Gujarat’s tourism, economy, and global identity.

This article explores how the 2036 Olympics can become a game-changing opportunity for Gujarat’s tourism sector — covering the foundational plans, infrastructure investments, cultural positioning, and long-term economic impacts.

Ahmedabad’s Olympic Vision

Ahmedabad is poised to host over 80% of the Olympic competitions, with the remaining events planned across selected Indian states. At the heart of the bid is the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave in Motera, built around the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium — the world’s largest cricket stadium. Along with this, a new Olympic Village and multiple indoor and outdoor arenas are under construction.

A dedicated agency named GOLYMPIC (Gujarat Olympic Planning and Infrastructure Corporation Ltd) has been tasked with all execution responsibilities. Ahmedabad’s infrastructure is being redesigned through smart planning, urban beautification, transit development, and green corridors to align with the Olympic vision.

Boosting Tourism Infrastructure

The Olympic Games are expected to attract over 500,000 international and domestic tourists during the event, apart from media and sports contingents. This influx requires a massive scale-up in hospitality services.

Currently, Ahmedabad–Gandhinagar region hosts around 60,000 rooms, but the Olympics will require at least 40,000 more star-rated rooms. Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), incentives, and fast-track clearances are driving rapid investment in hotel infrastructure, especially around:

1. Motera Sports Enclave

2. Sabarmati Riverfront

3. GIFT City

4. Airport and Bullet Train station zones

The Gujarat government is inviting luxury hotel chains, budget hotels, homestays, and serviced apartments to invest in the area, ensuring accommodation for every type of tourist.

Opportunities for Cultural Tourism

Gujarat’s rich culture, art, and heritage are expected to be major attractions during the Olympics. Ahmedabad is India’s first UNESCO World Heritage City, and visitors can explore:

1. The Walled City of Ahmedabad

2. Bhadra Fort

3. Gandhi Ashram

4. Jama Masjid

5. Pol houses and stepwells

Special “Olympics + Heritage” tourism packages are likely to be launched for tourists. These packages could include visits to:

1. The Statue of Unity

2. Rann of Kutch

3. Somnath and Dwarka temples

4. Sasan Gir (Asiatic lion sanctuary)

Events like Uttarayan (Kite Festival) and Navratri may also be synchronized with the Olympics calendar to offer a vibrant cultural display.

Key Transport and Urban Upgrades

Ahmedabad is undergoing a transit revolution:

1. The Mumbai–Ahmedabad Bullet Train, expected to be operational before 2036, will significantly reduce travel time.

2. The Ahmedabad Metro, expanding in Phases 2 and 3, will connect key Olympic venues, airport, railway station, and commercial hubs.

3. The Sabarmati Multimodal Hub will integrate metro, bullet train, BRTS, and rail networks, facilitating smooth travel.

4. Expansion of road infrastructure, green corridors, and public spaces around Sabarmati Riverfront and Motera Stadium will elevate citywide aesthetics.

This transformation will not only serve Olympic visitors but also create a world-class urban experience for citizens and future tourists.

Economic and Employment Benefits

Hosting the Olympics is projected to bring over ?20,000 crore in investments in Gujarat alone. Key beneficiaries include:

1. Construction industry (venues, hotels, roads)

2. Hospitality sector

3. Local artisans and craftsmen

4. Transportation and logistics

5. Guides and tour operators

6. Food and beverage providers

Long after the Games, the infrastructure will support MICE tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), positioning Gujarat as a business destination.

Sustainability and Legacy

Unlike some previous Olympic cities that saw underutilized “white elephant” stadiums, Ahmedabad's masterplan emphasizes multi-use, community-friendly, and sustainable design:

1. Venues will be used post-Games for national sports training, school competitions, public recreation, and tourism events.

2. Solar power, waste management, water conservation, and green building codes are integral to the infrastructure.

3. Tourism campaigns will promote eco-tourism, heritage walks, and riverfront experiences.

Gujarat is committed to ensuring that the Olympics serve as a long-term catalyst for tourism growth and civic pride.

Top Tourist Experiences During the 2036 Olympics

During the Olympics, tourists can enjoy:

1. Watching global sports at the SVP Sports Enclave

2. Visiting Gandhi Ashram and taking the Heritage Walk in old Ahmedabad

3. Experiencing Uttarayan – The International Kite Festival

4. Boating and events at Sabarmati Riverfront

5. Short trips to Statue of Unity, Dwarka, or Rann of Kutch

6. Shopping for bandhani textiles, handicrafts, and local snacks

7. Participating in cultural performances at the Ring of Unity amphitheatre

The Olympics will be more than a sporting event—it will be a celebration of Gujarat’s culture, history, and hospitality.

Winding Up Note

The 2036 Olympics has the potential to transform Ahmedabad into a global tourism epicentre, powered by Gujarat’s heritage, innovation, and hospitality. With major infrastructure projects, cultural integration, and sustainability-driven planning, this event could uplift India’s stature and deliver a tourism legacy that endures for decades. For global and domestic travellers alike, Gujarat will offer much more than medals—it will offer memories.

In case of any query regarding A Global Stage: Tourism Opportunities during the Olympics 2036 in Ahmedabad, feel free to connect with our legal experts, Tulja Legal, at +91 96380-69905

About the Author

Anju S Nair

Legal Researcher | LLB, MA English| Corporate Lawyer | Business Enthusiast | Founder & CEO at iLawbook.

FAQs

1. Why was Ahmedabad chosen for the Olympics 2036?
Ahmedabad already has large-scale venues, supportive government, connectivity upgrades, and space for Olympic-scale development.

2. What is the SVP Sports Enclave?
A 236-acre mega-sports complex in Motera with stadiums for multiple Olympic sports.

3. How many tourists are expected during the Olympics?
An estimated 500,000 domestic and international tourists.

4. What kind of hotels will be available?
Luxury hotels, budget stays, serviced apartments, and homestays across the city.

5. Which cultural sites can tourists visit?
Gandhi Ashram, Bhadra Fort, UNESCO-listed Walled City, Sabarmati Riverfront, and more.

6. Will there be heritage packages?
Yes, including Olympic tickets + city tours + short trips to key Gujarat destinations.

7. How will tourists move around the city?
Metro, bullet train, electric buses, and BRTS systems will be integrated.

8. What is Gujarat doing for sustainability?
Eco-conscious construction, renewable energy, water recycling, and green belts.

9. What is the long-term tourism plan?
To convert Olympic infrastructure into a permanent draw for sports, events, and tourism.

10. Will small businesses benefit?
Yes, local artisans, food vendors, guides, and event organizers are expected to gain substantially.

References

1. India Today. “India Makes a Big Pitch for 2036 Olympics.” India Today Magazine, 2025.

2. Times of India. “Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar to Host Over 80% Olympic Sports Events.” TOI, 2024.

3. Hindustan Times. “Gujarat Readies Mega Sports Infra Plan.” HT, 2024.

4. Shiv Group. “Unlocking the Hospitality Goldmine in Ahmedabad.” Shiva Group Blogs, 2024.

5. Indian Express. “Ahmedabad’s Olympic Plan.” The Indian Express, 2024.

6. Business Standard. “2036 Olympics Bid: India Plans Sports Hubs in Ahmedabad, Pune.” BS, 2024.

7. Wikipedia. “Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave.”

8. Reddit: r/Ahmedabad discussions on Olympics 2036 planning and legacy.

9. Star Biopic. “Gujarat’s Mega Plans for Olympics 2036.” Star Biopic, 2024.

10. Times of India. “2036 Olympics Bid: Sustainable and Inclusive Approach.” TOI, 2024.