The 3Arena in Dublin posted a strong financial performance in 2024, with pre-tax profits climbing to €20.7 million, driven by blockbuster concerts from international stars and Irish acts alike.
New accounts from Amphitheatre Ireland Ltd, the Live Nation-owned company that operates the venue, show an 8.5% increase in pre-tax profits compared to 2023, as revenues edged up from €36.22 million to €36.49 million. Post-tax profits came in at €18.24 million after a €2.47 million corporation tax charge.
The directors said the profit growth reflected both higher turnover and operational efficiencies, noting that the 3Arena “continued to perform strongly in 2024, attracting promoters of the best shows and large audience numbers.” The number of events rose to 126 from 117 in the previous year, though overall attendance dipped slightly to 1.054 million patrons from 1.069 million.
During the year, the company paid a €7.7 million dividend to parent firm Live Nation Ireland Holdings, with a further €10 million dividend issued in 2025. Operating profits were €18.9 million, boosted by €1.79 million in interest income.
Trade publication Pollstar ranked the 3Arena as the eighth highest-grossing arena in Europe last year, with box office revenues of €71.37 million in the 12 months to mid-November 2024. Several high-profile performers generated significant returns, with Fleetwood Mac’s Stevie Nicks alone bringing in €1.9 million from her Dublin show, where tickets ranged from €140 to €302.
Irish performers also enjoyed standout success. Niall Horan’s three-night run in February generated €2.65 million, while folk group the Wolfe Tones played to nearly 40,000 fans across three sold-out shows in October, taking in €1.84 million. Podcast stars Vogue Williams and Joanne McNally, capitalising on the global popularity of My Therapist Ghosted Me, drew almost 40,000 fans across five sell-out shows, grossing €2.36 million.
Pop reunions and international stars added further momentum. Girls Aloud’s two comeback shows in May earned €1.89 million, Olivia Rodrigo’s Dublin debut in the same month brought in €1.1 million from over 12,600 fans, and Take That’s two April concerts topped €2.4 million.
While attendance figures showed a modest decline, the financial boost from higher ticket prices and strong demand for premium acts underpinned the arena’s profitability. Box office receipts, which are split between artists, promoters, ticket sellers and the venue operator, helped the firm increase its cash reserves from €5.8 million to €17.8 million.
Employment at the company also rose, with staff numbers increasing from 45 to 47 and payroll costs rising to €2.88 million. Accumulated profits now stand at €69.37 million.
Looking ahead, directors expect turnover, EBITDA and net profits in 2025 to remain broadly in line with last year’s results, with the 3Arena maintaining its position as Ireland’s leading live entertainment venue.
