Assam Tourism Aims High: Plans International Shakira Concert in Dibrugarh
In a significant development for Assam's tourism sector, the state government is actively working to bring global pop icon Shakira to Dibrugarh as part of its ambitious concert tourism initiative. This announcement comes from Rituparna Baruah, chairman of the Assam Tourism Development Corporation Ltd (ATDCL), who revealed these plans on Sunday.
Building on Post Malone's Success
The proposed Shakira concert follows the highly successful hosting of American rapper Post Malone's performance in Guwahati in December last year. That event attracted thousands of music enthusiasts from across the northeast region, demonstrating both the appetite for international music events and the economic potential of concert tourism in Assam.
"We are actively exploring the possibility of roping in Shakira for our next event in Dibrugarh," stated Baruah. "This will not only put Dibrugarh on the international entertainment map but also provide a massive fillip to our local hospitality and transport sectors."
Venue Preparations and Infrastructure Upgrades
Plans are already underway to host the potential Shakira concert at the Multi-Disciplinary Sports Complex stadium in Dibrugarh. According to Baruah, this venue is currently being upgraded to accommodate approximately 35,000 spectators, making it suitable for large-scale international events.
The selection of Dibrugarh as the proposed location is particularly significant as the city is emerging as Assam's second capital, representing the government's intention to spread tourism benefits beyond Guwahati.
Assam's Concert Tourism Policy Framework
Baruah explained that the Assam government had adopted the Policy on Concert Tourism in 2025 specifically to popularize this emerging segment of the tourism industry. This policy framework is designed with clear objectives:
- Position Assam as a preferred destination for international music events
- Attract both domestic and international visitors through cultural performances
- Create economic opportunities for local businesses and service providers
- Enhance Assam's global cultural footprint
Learning from Regional Success Stories
The ATDCL chairman acknowledged that neighboring states like Meghalaya have been successfully attracting music lovers from across the globe by hosting international artists and bands. "Assam is now ready to replicate that success and scale it even further," Baruah added, indicating the state's determination to become a major player in India's concert tourism landscape.
This strategic move represents a calculated effort to diversify Assam's tourism offerings beyond traditional attractions, tapping into the growing demand for entertainment tourism among younger demographics and international visitors.
