Published on
January 23, 2026
The vibrant city of Dublin has once again cemented its position as a key player in the global tourism scene, thanks to the success of the Irish Travel Industry Awards 2026. Held at the historic Mansion House on 22 January 2026, this prestigious event brought together over 400 tourism professionals to celebrate achievements across Ireland’s thriving travel industry. The awards not only recognized excellence within the sector but also highlighted the growing importance of Ireland’s tourism in driving economic growth and attracting international visitors.
Dublin, as the event’s host city, benefitted significantly from this gathering, showcasing its ability to draw top-tier global talent and industry leaders. With Tourism Ireland and the Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) backing the event, the awards are seen as a reflection of Ireland’s evolving tourism industry and its significant role in attracting both business and leisure visitors. This recognition is crucial, especially as the Irish government continues to focus on expanding the tourism sector to achieve long-term economic growth.
Key Winners and Their Impact on Ireland’s Tourism
The Irish Travel Industry Awards 2026 celebrated the remarkable efforts of tourism professionals across various sectors. Click & Go Holidays, awarded Travel Agency of the Year (Over 10 Employees), is a prime example of how Ireland’s travel agencies continue to innovate and meet the demands of today’s travellers. By offering diverse packages and a customer-centric approach, the agency attracts both international tourists and locals seeking new travel experiences. Similarly, Navan Travel (winner in the Under 10 Employees category) has made a significant impact with its tailored services, strengthening Dublin’s position as a prime travel hub.
The event also spotlighted Frosch Ireland as Travel Management Company of the Year, a vital player in corporate travel that drives international business to Dublin and beyond. Such recognition encourages both local and international tourists to consider Ireland as a destination for business events, conferences, and incentive trips. These businesses exemplify how the tourism sector in Dublin and Ireland at large thrives on innovation and adaptability, making it more attractive to visitors from all over the world.
Honouring Sustainability and Innovation in the Travel Sector
The awards further underscored the importance of sustainability in tourism, with Frosch Ireland winning the Responsible Travel Award. Sustainability is an increasingly vital factor for tourists when choosing destinations, and Ireland’s efforts in this area are paying off. The recognition of companies committed to responsible practices not only boosts the reputation of the country’s tourism sector but also aligns with the growing demand for eco-friendly travel experiences.
Moreover, the Best Online Marketing Initiative award went to Best4Travel, reflecting the rising significance of digital marketing in the tourism industry. As more tourists turn to online platforms for travel inspiration and bookings, this type of recognition drives growth by enhancing visibility for Irish destinations, including Dublin. By promoting Ireland as a leading choice for cultural, historical, and leisure tourism, digital marketing plays a pivotal role in the country’s ongoing tourism growth.
Airline and Cruise Sector Recognition Fuels Global Connectivity
Airlines and cruise companies are essential components of Ireland’s global tourism strategy. Aer Lingus, which won Airline of the Year for both European and North American routes, plays a crucial role in connecting Dublin to major international cities, ensuring that the city remains a hub for both leisure and business travellers. With Emirates also receiving accolades for its long-haul services, Dublin’s position as a well-connected international airport is further solidified, making it an attractive destination for tourists from far and wide.
In the cruise sector, MSC Cruises and Silversea Cruises were recognised for their exceptional service, showcasing Ireland’s appeal as a cruise destination. With Dublin Port serving as a central hub for international cruise ships, these accolades reinforce the city’s capacity to host thousands of cruise passengers each year, directly benefiting the local hospitality and tourism economy. The awards highlight how both the airline and cruise industries continue to bolster the growth of Irish tourism by improving global access to Ireland.
The Future of Irish Tourism: Building on Awards Success
Looking ahead, the Irish Travel Industry Awards 2026 not only celebrated individual achievements but also pointed to the promising future of tourism in Ireland. The event served as a reminder of the country’s rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cities that attract visitors year-round. By highlighting the success of both established and emerging players in the tourism industry, the awards strengthen Ireland’s reputation as a destination of choice for tourists seeking unique and memorable experiences.
The Irish government’s continued investment in tourism, alongside the efforts of industry professionals, ensures that Ireland’s tourism sector will remain a key driver of economic growth and global recognition. As Dublin’s tourism industry continues to evolve and adapt to changing traveller needs, the success of these awards will play an essential role in inspiring further growth and attracting even more visitors to Ireland in the coming years.
