With a resilient, open economy, a strategic transatlantic location, and some of the most competitive tax incentives in the world, Dublin has become a preferred destination for international business. It’s no coincidence that four of the top five companies on TIME’s World’s Best Companies list have established operations here.
So, what makes thousands of global companies choose Dublin each year?
1. A global leader in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
Ireland’s FDI sector continues to outperform expectations, with investment volumes exceeding €1 trillion and contributing more than €38 billion annually to the economy. This supports 11% of national employment, showing its central role in Ireland’s economic success.
In 2023, FDI equated to 256% of Ireland’s GDP, the second highest in the OECD, just behind Luxembourg, showing the country’s stable policies, competitive tax regime, and strong transatlantic and EU ties.
Dublin’s momentum as an investment destination is also compelling. The city was recently placed first in Europe for Economic Potential in the Financial Times fDi Intelligence Major European Cities of the Future rankings for 2025, climbing one place from the previous year. It also secured second overall and third for Business Friendliness, cementing Dublin’s reputation as one of the most attractive locations in Europe for business growth and expansion.
2. A base for global enterprises
Dublin is the location of choice for thousands of multinational companies, drawn by the combination of talent, infrastructure, and global connectivity.
Industry leaders such as Google, Meta, Microsoft, HP, and Dell have established major operations in the city, reinforcing its position as a European hub for technology, life sciences, and financial services.
Dublin’s appeal is in its highly skilled workforce, business-friendly environment, and access to the EU and global markets. It’s a city where international companies can scale with confidence and success.
3. Expanding investment across key sectors
Investor sentiment is on the rise. According to EY’s Attractiveness Survey Ireland 2024, 79% of FDI decision-makers plan to establish or expand operations in Ireland within the next 12 months, up significantly from 53% the previous year.
Confidence is particularly strong in strategic sectors, with 95% of investors in Financial Services and 90% in Pharmaceuticals and Chemicals indicating imminent investment plans.
Looking ahead, 66% of global investors believe Ireland’s attractiveness as a business location will only continue to increase.
As Ireland’s capital, Dublin is a leading destination for much of its investment. Between 2020 and 2024, the city attracted 646 new FDI projects, resulting in a higher number of FDI projects per capita than Paris and London had during this time.
4. Rising R&D investment
Dublin’s startup ecosystem, combined with its accelerators, research centres, and strong innovation supports, continues to drive a surge in R&D activity.
In 2024, IDA Ireland secured 234 new investment projects, including a record €1.9 billion in R&D commitments across 64 initiatives, positioning Ireland as a European leader in innovation. These investments are projected to create 13,500 high-value jobs, many in advanced and knowledge-intensive sectors.
Ireland also offers one of Europe’s most competitive innovation incentives: the R&D tax credit, now increased from 25% to 30%. This enhanced credit provides greater upfront access to funding, particularly benefiting SMEs and first-time claimants.
5. A track record of long-term investment
Ireland has a legacy of welcoming international investment, particularly within Dublin, which has been a focal point for multinationals since IBM became the first US tech firm to establish operations here in 1956. Nearly 70 years later, IBM remains firmly rooted in the city, joined by a broad range of global technology leaders.
Today, over one-third of multinationals operating in Ireland have maintained a presence for more than 20 years, a signal of long-term value, stability, and sustained return on investment.
By joining Dublin’s business ecosystem, companies tap into a market that supports growth, encourages innovation, and continues enduring partnerships.
Join a thriving business ecosystem.
Explore the resources below to learn more about investing in Dublin and why global enterprises continue to choose Dublin as their European base.
