Ireland’s biggest tourism showcase kicks off as hundreds of global buyers arrive for Meitheal

Significant business deals are expected to be signed over the next two days with over 11,000 sales meetings scheduled to take place between 402 Irish tourism providers and 267 international buyers and tour operators from 17 countries. The countries represented are Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, Great Britain, and the USA.

The best of what is on offer across Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, Ireland’s Ancient East, the Wild Atlantic Way, and Dublin will be showcased with the aim of being scheduled on the future itineraries of global tour operators. This year almost 40 new tourism experiences are showcasing their product at the event for the first time including cultural attractions, heritage sites, craft and design studios, outdoor and water-based activities, hands-on culinary experiences and unique guided tours. Menus at Meitheal have been specially curated to highlight the exceptional quality and diversity of Irish food produce and suppliers across each of Fáilte Ireland’s regional tourism brands.

Speaking about the importance of events such as Meitheal, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke TD said: 

“Tourism is one of Ireland’s most important employers and a cornerstone of balanced regional economic development, with one in ten jobs supported by the sector. Delivering sustainable and evenly spread growth in tourism is a key objective of the national tourism policy which I launched last year, and trade events like Meitheal are central to achieving that ambition. Last year, overseas visitors generated €6 billion for the economy, supporting thousands of SMEs and sustaining livelihoods in communities right across the country. To remain competitive, we must continue showcasing the very best of Ireland to the world, from our cultural heritage to our worldclass hospitality and unique food experiences".

Prior to Meitheal, international buyers travelled throughout Ireland on bespoke itineraries designed by Fáilte Ireland to experience first-hand the depth and quality of Ireland’s tourism offering. These tailored trips featured experiences across Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s Ancient East, and Dublin, highlighting the distinctive and memorable holiday experiences that await visitors. 

Caroline Bocquel, CEO of Fáilte Ireland, said: 

“Meitheal is where Ireland’s tourism industry comes together to do real business. Its real power lies in the direct access it gives Irish tourism providers to high value international tour operators, buyers who collectively shape the travel decisions of hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. This is where global demand is translated into commercial opportunity. By working closely with industry partners to give these buyers a true sense of what sets Ireland apart, we help secure future business that supports jobs, strengthens communities and drives regional economies. 

“This year, almost 40 new saleable tourism experiences are joining Meitheal for the first time, reflecting the innovation and creativity of businesses nationwide. Continually refreshing and evolving our offering is essential to keeping Ireland competitive in the global tourism marketplace.” 

Meitheal 2026 is a sustainability-focused event where buyers and industry will be engaged in the shared mission of reducing the carbon footprint of the event. Every detail, from travel arrangements to food sourcing, is designed to minimise the environmental impact, creating a meaningful and measurable reduction in carbon emissions.