Ireland is to host Rotary International’s annual convention in Dublin this year bringing up to 20,000 members here in June.
It will be the first time that the convention will be hosted in Ireland. The winning bid was led by Rotary clubs across Ireland, with support from Fáilte Ireland’s Dublin Convention Bureau, and the Royal Dublin Society, where the five-day gathering will be based.
According to Rotary International, the event is projected to generate an estimated €68m for the economy from the convention itself, with additional economic impact anticipated as many delegates extend their stay in Ireland.
Speakers at previous Rotary international conventions have included former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and UN General Secretary General António Guterres. Rotary has clubs in almost every country in the world, describing itself as a membership service organisation whose members develop and support sustainable, community driven projects in the areas of health, education and the environment. Delegates from over 140 countries are expected to attend the convention, which will include an exhibition of over 100 humanitarian projects, workshops, presentations and entertainment.
“Rotary conventions are powerful global gatherings where people unite to exchange ideas, celebrate service, and drive new thinking toward a healthier, more peaceful future,” said Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo.
“We’re thrilled for our members to experience the hospitality of Dublin and the whole of Ireland when we come together at the RDS in 2031.” Garth Arnold, Co-Chair of the Bid Committee said Rotary club members in Ireland are thrilled to be bringing the international convention to Ireland for the first time.
“Rotary in Ireland has a long and proud history of service—Dublin Rotary Club, founded in 1911, was the first Rotary club established outside North America—yet we have never hosted the Rotary International Convention. Bringing this global gathering to Ireland has been a long‑held ambition of our members, and we are now very much looking forward to realising that ambition in 2031.”
According to Paul Mockler, Head of Commercial Development with Fáilte Ireland, the Rotary International Convention is projected to be one of Dublin’s most significant events in 2031.
“Fáilte Ireland is pleased that Dublin has been selected to host the Rotary International Convention in 2031. It is the largest convention ever secured through Fáilte Ireland and a major milestone for Ireland’s business events sector. With up to 20,000 international delegates expected, securing the convention is a testament to the Team Ireland approach underpinned in the Business Events 2030 strategy, which was launched by Minister Peter Burke in 2025.” “The convention provides a valuable opportunity to showcase Dublin and Ireland’s culture, heritage and visitor experiences. Many attendees are expected to extend their stay and explore regional destinations across the country, creating further economic benefit for tourism businesses and communities nationwide.”
