About Us
About Us
The Northern Ireland Tourism Alliance (NITA) was established in 2018. Led by industry, it is a single representative body providing a unified Voice for Tourism in Northern Ireland. NITA’s role is to represent our members ensuring the voice of industry is listened to in shaping the future growth of tourism and lobbying for the industry at all levels of government. We aim to raise awareness of and contribute to the solution of major strategic issues affecting the industry.
Our Members cover the diversity of sectors in Tourism and Travel
Tourism – A Key Economic Driver
Prior to the covid-19 pandemic, tourism has been one of the most resilient and successful parts of the local economy surpassing returns on investment made in other industrial sectors and out-pacing the average in job creation.
2019 was a record breaking year for Tourism which generated over £1bn in direct visitor spend and supported over 72,000 jobs.
5m
Overnight Trips
Growth of 31% since 2013
+7%
Inbound
In 2019, the number of external visitors to NI increased by 7%, compared to the ROI (+2%) & GB (+2%)
+200%
Cruise
200% growth in cruise ships docking in Northern Ireland from 2013-2019
£1bn
Spend
Visitor spend contributes in excess of £1bn to the economy
+46%
Spend
Visitor spend grown 46% from 2014 to 2019
70%
External
70% total visitor spend was by visitors from outside NI
71K
Jobs
22% growth since 2013
and 35% growth in median pay
Our People
NITA is governed by a board of industry leaders with representation across all sectors of the Tourism Economy. This strong voice helps shape the future of tourism and lobbying at all levels of government.