Top Importing Countries for Indian Rugs & What They’re Looking For

India is renowned worldwide as the largest exporter of handmade rugs and carpets, commanding a significant share of the global market. From intricately handknotted Persian-style rugs to minimalist flatweave and contemporary wool rugs, Indian rugs continue to capture international buyers’ attention.

As India’s leading rug manufacturer and exporter, PiHue Creations has witnessed how global demand for handmade rugs has evolved over the years. Different countries prefer different styles, materials, and price points—making it essential for rug exporters to understand what each market is looking for.

In this blog, we’ll explore the top importing countries for Indian rugs and the specific buyer expectations in each region.

1. United States – The Largest Market for Indian Rugs

The USA is the single biggest importer of Indian rugs, accounting for over 45% of India’s rug exports. American buyers value quality, variety, and durability, and the demand spans across both luxury carpets and affordable modern rugs.

What U.S. buyers look for:

• Handmade wool rugs for living rooms and dining spaces.

• Flatweave rugs (dhurries & kilims) in geometric and minimalist designs.

• Eco-friendly rugs made from jute, cotton, or recycled fibers.

• Large rugs suitable for spacious American homes.

With the growing trend of sustainable living, the U.S. market is leaning towards organic, eco-conscious rugs. Certifications like GoodWeave or Fair Trade further enhance trust.

2. Germany – Europe’s Design-Forward Buyer

Germany is the second-largest importer of Indian rugs in Europe. Known for its preference for modern interiors, German buyers prefer contemporary rugs with clean lines and neutral palettes.

What German buyers look for:

• Minimalist rugs in beige, grey, and earthy tones.

• Scandinavian-inspired rugs with geometric patterns.

• Handwoven rugs that emphasize sustainability and durability.

• Certified child-labour-free carpets with traceable supply chains.

Germany’s focus on eco-conscious living makes sustainable wool rugs and jute rugs especially attractive to importers.

3. United Kingdom – Tradition Meets Modern Living

The UK market for Indian rugs blends tradition with modern preferences. British homes often value Persian-style rugs, Oushak rugs, and distressed rugs, but there is also a growing market for modern flatweave rugs.

What UK buyers look for:

• Luxury carpets with traditional Persian and Kashmiri designs.

• Handknotted rugs for premium buyers.

• Bohemian rugs and eclectic runner rugs for urban homes.

• Custom-size rugs tailored for apartments and townhouses.

With the rise of e-commerce in the UK, rug exporters from India supplying directly to online brands and designers are seeing rapid growth.

4. United Arab Emirates (UAE) – Luxury-Driven Market

The UAE, especially Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is a hub for luxury home décor. Indian rugs are widely used in hotels, villas, and high-end apartments. Buyers in this region are drawn to ornate designs, bold colors, and premium-quality materials.

What UAE buyers look for:

• Luxury carpets with Persian-style and Mughal-inspired motifs.

• Large statement rugs for majlis and hospitality spaces.

• Handknotted silk rugs for high-net-worth clients.

• Modern rugs with metallic threads and contemporary flair.

With its position as a re-export hub, Dubai also imports rugs to distribute across the wider Middle East and North Africa.

5. France – Lovers of Artisanal Craft

France values artistry and storytelling in home décor. French buyers lean toward artisanal handmade rugs that celebrate craftsmanship and cultural heritage.

What French buyers look for:

• Handwoven kilim rugs with tribal motifs.

• Distressed rugs that blend vintage charm with modern design.

• Bohemian rugs in vibrant colors.

• Eco-friendly rugs crafted with organic materials.

For French consumers, rugs are not just floor coverings but artistic expressions, making India’s handmade rug exports especially appealing.

6. Australia – Growing Demand for Sustainable Rugs

Australia’s demand for Indian rugs has grown significantly, fueled by the rising preference for eco-conscious home décor.

What Australian buyers look for:

• Natural fiber rugs (jute rugs, wool rugs, cotton rugs).

• Minimalist rugs with earthy, neutral tones.

• Flatweave rugs suitable for modern interiors.

• Outdoor-friendly rugs made with durable fibers.

Sustainability is a strong selling point in this market, making eco-friendly handmade rugs from India highly desirable.

7. Middle East (Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman)

The broader Middle East beyond the UAE is also a fast-growing market for Indian rugs. With their cultural appreciation for luxury carpets, countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman import both traditional and modern rug designs.

What Middle Eastern buyers look for:

• Persian-style handknotted rugs with rich detailing.

• Luxury carpets for palaces, mosques, and hotels.

• Runner rugs for corridors and long spaces.

• Large rugs suited for grand living areas.

In this region, Indian rug exporters with customization capabilities and luxury finishes gain a strong advantage.

Final Thoughts

The global rug market is dynamic, with each country valuing different styles, materials, and certifications. While the USA leads with demand for eco-friendly and large rugs, Europe emphasizes minimalism and sustainability, and the Middle East thrives on luxury carpets and ornate handknotted rugs.

As India’s leading rug manufacturer and exporter, PiHue Creations stays attuned to these global trends, ensuring our collections—from wool rugs and kilims to luxury handknotted carpets—meet the expectations of buyers worldwide.

By combining traditional craftsmanship with modern design and adhering to international standards, Indian rug exporters are not just selling products—they are carrying forward India’s rich heritage of weaving into homes across the globe.