The Department for the Economy has welcomed figures showing a significant surge in cross-border tourism, with visitors from the Republic of Ireland making 1.3 million trips to Northern Ireland in 2025. The statistics reveal a 15% increase in trips compared with 2024, alongside a substantial rise in spending that delivered millions of pounds in additional revenue to local businesses.
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald highlighted the figures as evidence that the all-Ireland economy is driving tourism sector growth, with the upcoming Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann festival in Belfast expected to further boost visitor numbers this summer.
Record Growth in Cross-Border Visitors
Central Statistics Office figures show that trips by Republic of Ireland residents to Northern Ireland rose from 1.1 million in 2024 to 1.3 million in 2025. These visitors stayed for a total of 2.7 million nights last year, up 9% from the 2.5 million recorded in 2024.
Expenditure by these visitors jumped from just over £242.7 million in 2024 to almost £317.1 million in 2025—a 31% rise.
- 1.3 million trips from Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland in 2025 (up 15%)
- 2.7 million overnight nights (up 9% from 2024)
- £317.1 million spent by visitors (up 31% from £242.7 million)
- 125 million opportunities to see or hear Tourism NI’s Spring 2026 campaign in ROI
Minister Welcomes Economic Boost
Dr Archibald welcomed the figures, noting the importance of the all-Ireland economy to the tourism sector’s success.
“These latest figures show that the all-Ireland economy is driving growth in our tourism industry. More people from the south are visiting the north, bringing increased spending into our local economy. With Belfast hosting the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann this August we can expect this positive trend to continue.”
— Dr Caoimhe Archibald, Economy Minister
Marketing Campaigns Drive Visibility
Tourism NI attributes part of this success to sustained marketing efforts targeting the Republic of Ireland market. The organisation’s Spring 2026 marketing campaign, running until 31 March, has already delivered significant reach and is on track to achieve 125 million opportunities to see or hear the activity across the Republic of Ireland.
Carmel Scott, Head of Marketing at Tourism NI, emphasised the role of strategic promotion in driving demand.
“This growth reflects the impact and importance of our sustained marketing focus in this key market, highlighting what our industry has to offer and driving demand.
“ROI visitors continue to enjoy our stunning landscapes and coastlines, vibrant food and drink scene, and world‑class attractions, experiences and accommodation – all delivered with the giant welcome Northern Ireland is known for.
“Our heavyweight marketing campaign continues in ROI until 31 March. We will maintain a strong focus on this market and encourage industry partners to do the same, ensuring Northern Ireland continues to achieve marketing cut‑through and remains top of mind for short breaks all year round.”
— Carmel Scott, Head of Marketing, Tourism NI
All-Island Tourism Context
While growth in Republic of Ireland visitors offers positive news for Northern Ireland’s tourism industry, the figures come against a backdrop of mixed performance across other markets. According to Central Statistics Office data for the island of Ireland, overall overseas visitor expenditure in 2025 was estimated at €5.5 billion, down 9% compared with 2024 but up 1% on 2023 levels.
Strong performance from the Republic of Ireland market contrasts with softer spending patterns from some overseas visitors, highlighting the all-island tourism economy’s importance as a stabilising force during uncertain times.
The announcement coincides with preparations for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, the world’s largest celebration of Irish music and culture, taking place in Belfast from 2 to 9 August 2026. This marks only the second time the festival has been held in Northern Ireland, following the 2013 event in Derry~Londonderry.
Key Policy Questions
- How will the implementation of the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme affect future growth from non-EU markets, and what mitigation measures are being prepared?
- Can Northern Ireland’s tourism infrastructure, particularly accommodation capacity in Belfast, handle the additional demand expected from major events like the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann?
- What steps are being taken to address the VAT disparity between Northern Ireland (20%) and the Republic of Ireland (9% for hospitality), which industry representatives have flagged as a competitiveness concern?
- Will the growth in Republic of Ireland visitors offset potential declines from other key markets such as Great Britain and North America?
- How sustainable is the current growth trajectory given ongoing cost-of-living pressures affecting consumer discretionary spending?
Outlook
The coming months will reveal whether the Spring 2026 marketing campaign can maintain momentum beyond March and whether the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann delivers the anticipated economic boost to Belfast and surrounding areas. Industry observers will also monitor how Tourism NI balances its focus between the strong Republic of Ireland market and the need to diversify visitor sources to ensure long-term resilience.
For tourism businesses, the figures suggest continued opportunities to attract cross-border visitors, particularly those seeking value-for-money short breaks. The Department for the Economy notes that satisfaction levels remain high among Republic of Ireland visitors, with the vast majority reporting that expectations were met or exceeded during recent trips.