The Ministries of Tourism and Transportation will now advance feasibility studies and detailed planning, with an investment of around NIS 4 million ($1.3 million).
'Israel is like one big family—this is what Judaism is about. It is very special to be part of this situation, and I will never forget it,' one tourist said.
Among the major projects receiving funding are upgrades to Park HaTachana in Tel Aviv, the Port of Lights audiovisual show at the Port of Haifa, Bible Hill in Samaria, and Pilgrimage Road in the City of David in Jerusalem.
As Israel’s severe thunderstorms finally subside, tourists are returning north to enjoy its scenic landscapes and Mount Hermon, a region that has been off-limits for years due to conflict.
Domestic tourism also continued to be a stabilizing force, with more than 13 million overnight stays by Israelis recorded in hotels nationwide by the end of the third quarter.
Greece remained the most popular international destination, welcoming 2.2 million Israeli travelers, followed by the United States with 1.6 million and the United Arab Emirates with 1.5 million.
Foreign tourists stranded in Israel after an Israeli airstrike campaign on Iranian military sites are finding ways to cope and stay resilient amid the uncertainty of when they’ll get to return home.
As the organization approaches its 25th anniversary with more than 850,000 alumni, its role in sustaining Israel’s tourism infrastructure during challenging periods has become increasingly apparent.
Located at the southernmost tip of Israel, Eilat beckons travelers with its sun-soaked shores, vibrant marine life, and a blend of natural wonders and modern attractions.
Last year saw double the number of international visitors compared to 2021, with room occupancy in city hotels at 55% in 2022 versus just 22% the previous year.
As grounds for cancelling the show, Frankfurt cited Roger Waters' antisemitic imagery in concert, which includes an inflatable pig with a Star of David.
Tourism officials are looking to get visits back to pre-coronavirus levels. Israel recorded 2.9 million tourists in 2022 with the last travel restrictions being lifted in May.
In the first stage of a phased plan, a limited number of tour groups will start to arrive, with individual travelers being admitted at a later date, says the Tourism Ministry.
The tourism industry has been one of the hardest industries hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, and now a new deal between Israel and Greece may help bring the sector back to life.
Israel’s tourism industry recorded an increase in visits in February, despite the global scare over the spread of Coronavirus and its effect on international tourism.
Based on financial expenditures by travelers, trend forecaster Virtuoso ranked Israel as the third most appealing place to visit in the world for spring break.