A report by dnata Travel, a UAE travel provider, has revealed that  since the announcement of visa free travel for Emiratis to Ireland in early 2018, there has been a 63.5% overall increase in year on year travel from the UAE to Ireland. 

The report showed a dramatic 55% increase in travel arrangements made within 14 days in advance of travelling, including a 9% increase in bookings made within three days of travel, signifying the benefit of visa restrictions being lifted.

In addition, the statistics indicated a 9% increase in solo travellers, with room nights and average booking values also experiencing a year-on-year growth.

Niall Gibbons, CEO of Tourism Ireland, said: “The draw of Ireland for GCC travellers was undeniable last year, and we’re proud to welcome more visitors to our country every year.  Visa-free travel was a historic step for Ireland-Emirati relations.”

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