With a new ceasefire in effect, Israel is hopeful for an
increase in tourism.
The Israel Ministry
of Tourism has continued to invest in and improve tourism infrastructure
and supporting struggling business despite a challenging year.
“While 2024 brought historic challenges for Israel’s tourism
industry, we thank those who came to visit loved ones, participate in
solidarity and volunteer missions, as well as those who supported us from near
and far,” said Yael Golan, Interim Tourism Commissioner to North America,
Israel Ministry of Tourism.
She added, “Our community is incredibly resilient, and the
news of a ceasefire and the ongoing return of hostages continues to bring us
hope for a peaceful future. Israel’s tourism infrastructure continued to move
forward during these challenging times with the introduction of new hotels,
restaurants and museum exhibits. Whether you are planning a visit in 2025 or in
the hopeful future, Israel looks forward to welcoming you.”
Tourism Developments
- Delta
Air Lines announced that it will resume flights between New York-JFK and Ben
Gurion Airport beginning April 1, 2025.
- Starting February 8, 2025, Israeli airline Arkia
will make its first flight to the US and offer round trips from Tel Aviv to New
York-JFK.
- The Israeli Minister of Tourism (IMOT) has
allocated over $60 million to support 55 public tourism infrastructure projects
in 2025.
- Digital travel authorization system ETA-IL visa
requirements went into effect providing a convenient and efficient way for
travelers to obtain entry permits to Israel.
- Jerusalem Convention Bureau launched a website
dedicated to meeting planners for streamlining events, conferences and
conventions.
Hotel Openings and Re-Openings
- David’s Harp Galilee Resort will officially
re-open in December 2024 offering breathtaking views of the Sea of Galilee,
Golan Heights and Galilee Hills.
- The Galilion Hotel is Israel’s Hula Valley
reopened on January 9, 2025 following an extensive renovation.
- Roxon Red Sea Eilat, opening in December 2024 is
an adults-only luxury experience with stunning views of the Red Mountains.
- Upscale Gordonia Golan Beach Hotel is in the
planning phase scheduled to be built on the site of the former Luna-Gal complex
on the Sea of Galilee shores.
- Two new hotels are in the planning stages at Zichron
Ya’akov Wine Park.
Attractions
- National Park updates include recent designation
of new and expanded nature reserves and national parks including Berekhat
Ya’ar, HaSharon, Avtach, and the Heart of Ramon Crater and the establishment of
Israel’s first marine national park, Yam Caesarea.
- Tower of David Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage
Site is now more accessible due to the installation of ramps, elevator and tactile
exhibits.
- Almog Beach in Eilat is set to undergo expansion
and will be the first southern oceanfront area to be designated as a city
beach.
- The Tel Aviv Museum of Art will soon re-open to
the public.
Additionally, tour operator Birthright Israel has kicked off
its winter season offering transformative journeys for participants.
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