Ireland
Strategic Economic and Digital Partner
- Band cut
- ≥ 40
- Countries in band
- 104
The seven measures behind Ireland's 58
Each is scored 0–100, where higher is always better. Open a row to read the analysis behind its number.
| Measure | Score | Position on 0–100 |
|---|---|---|
| 55 | ||
| 83 | ||
| 80 | ||
| 70 | ||
| 0 | ||
| 90 | ||
| 40 |
Bonus considerations — useful, but they do not affect the score
These two are worked out for every country as context for a trip. They are not part of the 58 above, and nothing here can move it in either direction.
Higher means cheaper for an Indian traveller.
Higher means easier to eat vegetarian.
Why Ireland?
The standing assessment behind the public sentiment reading of 70, rewritten at each refresh.
India-Ireland relations, particularly on the diplomatic and official fronts, continue to exhibit a highly positive and stable trajectory, significantly bolstered by Ireland's assumption of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union on July 1, 2026. This period has seen intensified Irish diplomatic rhetoric emphasizing India as a crucial strategic partner. Ireland's Ambassador to India, Kevin Kelly, has repeatedly underscored the importance of advancing negotiations on the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), optimistically calling it a 'game changer' and even 'the mother of all trade deals' with hopes for its finalization by year-end. This proactive stance, along with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's recent discussions with Irish Foreign Minister Helen McEntee to deepen cooperation in trade and education, highlights a strong and forward-looking partnership. The historical perception of Ireland as a 'trusted friend' to India, rooted in shared struggles, is consistently acknowledged by Irish officials, reinforcing a foundation of goodwill and strategic alignment beyond mere economic interests.
However, the media narrative within Ireland and public perception, particularly concerning Indian migrants and students, presents a more complex and at times concerning picture. While international media has largely reflected the positive diplomatic rhetoric regarding the EU-India strategic partnership, certain segments of the Irish mainstream media have voiced critical perspectives on increased Indian migration. Publications like Gript (May 2026, with a July 23, 2026 update) have framed it as 'brutal competition' for the Irish middle class, suggesting potential downward pressure on wages. More significantly, a July 2026 report in The Journal highlighted concerns from Indian students who feel they were 'aggressively pushed' into coming to Ireland by government education roadshows, only to face 'fake dreams' of job prospects and significant debt upon arrival. This directly impacts the perception and experience of a crucial segment of the Indian diaspora. Although overall tourism figures for Ireland in the first half of 2026 showed growth, with 'Rest of the World' visitors contributing 5%, specific sentiment towards Indian tourists remains largely undifferentiated in recent reports.
Reasons to visit
Ireland, the 'Emerald Isle', offers an incredibly inviting experience for Indian tourists, characterized by its outstanding hospitality and secure environment. With a remarkably high Friendliness Index (estimated at 9/10), visitors can expect a warm welcome, genuine interactions with locals, and a vibrant cultural immersion that feels both authentic and homely. Complementing this warmth is an excellent Safety Score (estimated at 8.5/10), making Ireland an ideal destination for solo travellers, families, or groups seeking peace of mind while exploring its breathtaking landscapes and historic sites. While its Popularity Score (estimated at 7.5/10) signifies it's a well-loved global destination, it still retains a unique charm, allowing for both iconic experiences and opportunities to discover less-trodden paths. From its rolling green hills and dramatic coastlines to its bustling cities and charming villages, Ireland promises a journey filled with unforgettable memories, rich history, vibrant music, and the legendary 'craic' (fun and lively conversation) that makes every visit truly special.
Where Indian travellers go
- 1Dublin
- 2Cliffs of Moher
- 3Ring of Kerry
Worth knowing
- Ireland is home to the oldest known astronomical observatory in the world, Newgrange, built around 3200 BC, predating Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids.
- Despite its small size, Ireland has produced four Nobel Prize winners in Literature: W.B. Yeats, George Bernard Shaw, Samuel Beckett, and Seamus Heaney.
- St. Patrick's Day, celebrated globally, actually originated in Ireland and was historically a more solemn religious holiday before evolving into the festive celebration it is today.
In the record
- Band
- Neutral / Developing
- Trade rank
- 30
- Trade volume
- $8.9B
- Share of India’s trade
- 0.78%
- GDP
- $721.7B