Beit Yisrael International: The country that hates Israelis is paying a price
Beit Yisrael International: The country that hates Israelis is paying a price
The country that hates Israelis is paying a price: a dramatic decline in tourism
After pro-Palestinian demonstrations, price hikes and site closures, tourists prefer to skip Ireland. Tens of Percent Decline in Tourism Severely Hurts Local Businesses
Ireland's tourism industry – one of the growth engines of the local economy – suffered a painful blow in 2025. After years of a steady increase in the number of visitors, there was a dramatic decline in tourism this year, mainly in the first months of the year, but also in the summer, which is considered the peak of the tourist season.
According to the Central Bureau of Statistics Ireland (CSO), the number of foreign visitors fell by 30% in February compared to the previous year, and by 15% in March. In May 2025, the data shows a decrease of 10% compared to May 2024. In June and July – the peak of the season – there was also a decline, albeit more moderate (about 2 percent), but still one that worries the industry.
The data show not only a decrease in the number of visitors, but also a shortening of the length of stay and a decrease in average expenditure per tourist. Hotel stays have decreased, expenses in restaurants and shops have decreased, and the loss of income to the local economy is already estimated at tens of millions of euros.
What causes the decline?
Several possible causes are clearly visible. First, Ireland is considered one of the most expensive countries in Europe for tourists. The rising cost of living is also affecting the prices of hotels, restaurants and public transport – and it is driving away tourists who prefer more economically accessible destinations, such as Portugal, Spain or Eastern Europe.
Second, the political tension is clearly felt on the streets of the big cities. A wave of pro-Palestinian demonstrations, some of them large and particularly noisy, conveys an uncomfortable atmosphere to tourists – especially for tourists looking for a calm or quiet vacation. Some visitors choose to avoid destinations where there is a sense of unrest in the air, even if there is not necessarily a direct danger.
Also, major tourist sites have recently been closed due to safety issues, which further undermines the country's attractiveness as a nature and landscape destination.
A challenging year — with implications for the future
While in the second and third quarters of the year there is a certain halt in the trend, mainly because this is the peak season in all European countries, there is still no real sign of recovery. It is important to understand that according to the numbers, visitor spending in Ireland fell by 21% in May alone compared to May 2024. This is of great concern to business owners in the field of tourism.
The decline in tourism is affecting not only hotels, but also transportation services, tours, restaurants, bars, cultural and arts centers – almost all levels of the urban and rural economy.
Google Translation of: משבר באירלנד: לא רק הישראלים - ירידה בתיירות ב-2025 | מעריב
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