Despite a most challenging year, the Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT) has continued investing in tourism, allocating over $60 million USD (219 million NIS) specifically to supporting struggling businesses and improving tourism infrastructure. The country also saw a host of new experiences, attractions and hotels open, plus a number of significant archaeological findings, again highlighting the land of Israel’s remarkable importance in human history.

In 2024, there were 962,000 tourist arrivals to Israel, 68% lower than 2023, given the events of Oct. 7, 2023. However, December saw a 44% increase in arrivals year over 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. “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 Airlines Announces a Resumption of Flights from JFK on April 1

On Friday, Jan. 24, Delta Airlines announced it will resume flights between New York-JFK and Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv beginning on April 1, 2025, making it the first U.S. carrier to announce its return following the ceasefire. The airline will provide transport for 2,000 passengers weekly.

Arkia Launches New Direct Flight from Tel Aviv to New York

Starting Feb. 8, the Israeli airline Arkia will be making its first flight to the United States and will offer round-trip flights from Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport to New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport beginning at $1,199. The ticket cost includes luggage, two full meals and beverages. Arkia will operate three weekly flights from JFK on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. To make these new flights possible, Arkia has partnered with TechAir, an Israeli tech investor, and together, the company hopes to make more flights available between the United States and Israel in the future.

IMOT Allocates Over $60 Million to 55 Tourism Projects

In Dec. 2024, IMOT announced it will be allocating over $60 million to support 55 public tourism infrastructure projects in 2025. Some of these projects include laser shows at the marina in Eilat and the citadel in the Knights’ Halls – Old Akko, illumination of monuments in Jerusalem, the development of the Ark of the Covenant Promenade in Kiryat Ye’arim and more.

ETA-IL Visa Requirement Goes into Effect

On Jan. 1, 2025, Israel officially launched its digital travel authorization system, ETA-IL. This modernized system provides a convenient and efficient way for travelers to obtain entry permits, ensuring a smooth journey to Israel. The ETA-IL system allows guests from visa-exempt countries to obtain prior authorization to enter Israel from a convenient, online portal. Once submitted, the application undergoes a quick and thorough review by Israeli authorities, typically resulting in rapid approval via email, and requires a ~$7 processing fee.

Jerusalem Convention Bureau Launches Convention and Conference Website

The Jerusalem Convention Bureau has recently launched a website dedicated to meeting planners to streamline the process for planning events, conferences and conventions in Israel. This website provides meeting planners with information about suppliers in the conference field, allows planners to submit RFPs for venues and vendors, as well as shares attractions in Jerusalem that are suitable for large groups.

HOTEL OPENING AND REOPENINGS 

David’s Harp Galilee Resort

David’s Harp Galilee Resort, a stunning collaboration between Miloslavsky Architects and interior designer Michael Azulay, officially reopened in December 2024. Nestled amidst lush vegetation, the resort offers breathtaking views of the Sea of Galilee, the Golan Heights and the Galilee Hills. This idyllic setting provides the perfect backdrop for this luxurious complex, which features 276 guest rooms, including 18 new suites and two opulent presidential suites, offering a range of accommodations to suit every traveler. As part of the renovation, the hotel has introduced 18 luxurious suites seamlessly blending contemporary design with unparalleled comfort. The hotel has also unveiled a newly opened spa that offers a range of innovative treatments and an advanced technological business lounge.

The Galilion Hotel in Israel’s Hula Valley

The Galilion Hotel in Israel’s Hula Valley reopened its doors on Jan. 9, 2025, marking the first hotel to welcome guests again in the Upper Galilee region. Following an extensive renovation, the hotel boasts significant upgrades. All 120 rooms and suites have been refurbished, public areas like the lobby and spa have been enhanced, the pool facilities have been expanded and conference halls have been modernized. Furthermore, the hotel has strengthened its ties with local businesses by developing new tourism packages that offer guests unique experiences such as regional tours, culinary adventures and cultural events.

Roxon Red Sea Eilat

Roxon Hotels recently unveiled its latest addition, the sophisticated Roxon Red Sea Eilat, which opened its doors in December 2024. Founded by Avi Shavki, Eran Koyatek and Kobi Avrahami, this adults-only hotel provides an unparalleled luxury experience. With 168 elegantly designed rooms, each offering breathtaking views of the Red Mountains, the hotel seamlessly blends a relaxed ambiance with personalized pampering. Guests can enjoy leisurely breakfast at the hotel restaurant until noon, unwind in the stylish lobby bar, savor a fine cigar in the dedicated lounge, challenge friends to a game of billiards, maintain their fitness routine in the well-equipped gym, or simply relax by the inviting pool, which remains open late into the evening.

Gordonia Golan Beach Hotel

The Gordonia Golan Beach Hotel is in the planning phase, scheduled to be built on the site of the former Luna-Gal complex on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. The upscale hotel will feature approximately 150 suites divided into two distinct wings: a family-friendly wing and a wing specifically designed for couples. In addition to luxurious accommodations, the hotel will offer a world-class chef’s restaurant, state-of-the-art conference facilities, a rejuvenating spa and a well-equipped fitness center.

Two Hotels Planned for Zichron Ya’akov Wine Park

The Israel Land Authority, in partnership with the Israel Ministry of Tourism, is seeking developers to build two new hotels within the Zichron Ya’akov Wine Park. These hotels will add 265 guest rooms to the existing tourism infrastructure in the area. The Wine Park itself is a multifaceted development that aims to be a premier tourist destination. It already includes nearly 200 residential units under construction, spaces for businesses related to wine production and other local crafts, and various public areas for visitors to enjoy. The overall plan encompasses a mix of tourism, residential and commercial zones, all designed to enhance the visitor experience and contribute to the local economy.

ATTRACTIONS

Updates to National Parks

The recent designation of new and expanded nature reserves and national parks, including Berekhat Ya’ar, HaSharon, Avtach, and the Heart of Ramon Crater, is expected to attract a surge of nature enthusiasts. This initiative, undertaken in collaboration with the Planning Administration, also includes the establishment of Yam Caesarea National Park, Israel’s first marine national park. Situated along the Mediterranean coast, this underwater park encompasses approximately 267 acres and boasts remarkable archaeological remnants from Roman times, such as the ancient Caesarea Harbor, inaugurated by King Herod the Great in 10 BCE. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore this unique underwater world through diving, swimming or snorkeling.

Tower of David Citadel

The Tower of David Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is now significantly more accessible thanks to the installation of elevators, ramps and tactile exhibits, bringing accessibility to 85% of the site. This remarkable achievement, which necessitated the removal of a vaulted medieval roof to accommodate an elevator, demonstrates a commitment to inclusion and respect for diversity. Since 2009, PAMI has spearheaded efforts to make this one-square-mile area accessible to all, ensuring that everyone can experience its unique beauty and rich history, regardless of their physical abilities.

Almog Beach in Eilat

Almog Beach in Eilat is set to undergo expansion, aiming to enhance the coastal experience for both locals and tourists. The Eilat municipality is actively working to expand the city’s beaches, and Almog Beach will be the first Southern oceanfront area to be officially designated as a city beach. This eight-mile stretch of coastline has long been popular for swimming, surfing and snorkeling, and the city hopes that this expansion will bring improved amenities to this beloved recreational area.

The Tel Aviv Museum of Art

The masterpieces of The Tel Aviv Museum of Art have been returned to their galleries. On Oct. 7, 2023, an emergency team moved valuable masterpieces to protected storage. The relocation included works by Pablo Picasso, Francis Bacon, René Magritte, Gustav Klimt, Georgia O’Keeffe, Leonora Carrington, Jackson Pollock and many others. Now, the artworks have been returned to the museum, which will soon reopen to the public.

TOUR OPERATORS

Birthright Israel

Birthright Israel has kicked off its winter season, marking a significant return to normalcy. After the events of Oct. 7, participants are once again exploring the northern parts of Israel, reconnecting with the country’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Throughout the winter, over 6,500 young Jewish adults from across the globe will embark on transformative journeys. These experiences extend beyond typical tours, encompassing internships and volunteer opportunities that aim to foster deeper bonds with Israel. This demonstrates Birthright’s unwavering dedication to providing participants with a comprehensive Israeli experience, even during challenging periods.

For more information about Israel’s tourism offerings, visit israel.travel.

New York Jewish Travel Guide