US President Donald Trump arrived at Dublin Airport on Saturday, September 12, 2026, for a two-day visit to Ireland. The trip includes meetings with Irish President Catherine Connolly and Taoiseach Micheál Martin.
The visit has prompted a significant security operation, described as one of the largest ever implemented by the Irish police service. As Air Force One landed, numerous police officers and security personnel were observed preparing for the President's motorcade.
President Trump is scheduled to participate in events in Dublin and at his golf resort in Doonbeg, County Clare, which is hosting the Irish Open. Taoiseach Micheál Martin expressed anticipation for the visit, stating his intent to discuss "many issues of mutual interest and reaffirming the strong economic, cultural and people-to-people ties between Ireland and the United States." He also noted the visit's timing during a "remarkable sporting summer for Ireland" and hoped for an Irish winner at the Irish Open.
During his stay, President Trump is expected to meet President Connolly at her official residence, Áras an Uachtaráin, in Dublin's Phoenix Park. He will also meet with Taoiseach Martin at the Farmleigh Estate. Ahead of the President's arrival, hundreds of guests, including former Irish premiers Bertie Ahern and Enda Kenny, as well as business leaders like Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary and entertainer Michael Flatley, were seen arriving at the residence of the US ambassador to Ireland, Edward Walsh.
A speech by President Trump is planned at a marquee erected on the grounds of the historic Deerfield property in Phoenix Park, which has been decorated with American flags. Music, including the Village People's "YMCA" and Lee Greenwood's "God Bless The USA," was played during sound checks.
The visit has drawn planned protests from some residents who have expressed frustration over disruptions and criticism of the President's policies. Taxi driver Christopher Fox cited "mayhem in this city" caused by the visit, questioning the timing given global turmoil. University student Mina Petrovski called Trump's "attitudes towards women, towards immigrants, towards minority communities in general" abhorrent.
Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly stated that peaceful protest would be accommodated but warned of "no tolerance" for public disorder or interference with the President's movements. He confirmed that water cannons would be on standby. Police have established a cordon around Dublin's Phoenix Park for the meetings.
This visit follows an invitation extended by Micheál Martin to President Trump during their meeting at the White House on St. Patrick's Day earlier in the year. Irish political leaders view the visit as an opportunity to maintain strong trans-Atlantic relations, despite potential differences on trade and foreign policy, which the White House indicated President Trump wishes to discuss.