STUDY: Ireland suffering significant slowdown for international arrivals

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By Travel Weekly


The growth rate for international arrivals in Ireland has nearly halved compared to the last few years, new research has revealed.

According to data and analytics company GlobalData, the compound annual growth rate for international arrivals in Ireland has fallen from 8.1 per cent between 2014 and 2018 to 3.8 per cent for 2018 to 2023.

Johanna Bonhill-Smith, associate analyst for travel and tourism at GlobalData said: “Ireland received around 9.3million international arrivals in 2018 and an increase of 3.9 per cent is forecast for 2019, urging around 9.7million international travellers to Ireland.

“Despite this growth, 2017 to 2018 held a yearly difference of seven per cent – nearly double the amount for the increase this year.”

Ireland's international arrivals (GlobalData)

The UK is the top source of international arrivals to Ireland (76 per cent) due to accessibility, affordability and convenience in travel.

However, due to ongoing negotiations, complete uncertainty and potential outcomes of Brexit’, traveller flows have also slowly dwindled according to GlobalData, decreasing four per cent from 6.8 per cent from 2017 to 2018, to 1.7 per cent from 2018 to 2019.

European source markets dominate the Irish international arrivals lists for 2018 with countries such as Germany, France, Italy and Spain taking the lead.

Bonhill-Smith noted thast Canada holds the most potential for growth as a source of international arrivals for Ireland out of all North American markets.

“Despite overall slowdown with international arrivals, Canada forecasts as a promising source market for Ireland,” she said.

“Due to cultural similarities, the emergence of new flight routes, followed by an increase in promotional campaigns to this North American destination, Canadian travellers are expected to grow by seven per cent from 2018 to 2019, further highlighting opportunities for growth within Ireland’s source markets.”

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