February 2026
Influencer & Media Delegations: In 2025, we hosted hundreds of opinion leaders. In 2026, we are significantly increasing this. There is no better way to show the world the reality of Israel than through the eyes of those who visit and see it for themselves.
Beyond the international market, how are you encouraging Israelis and visitors to explore the hidden gems of the country?
We recently launched “Israeli Tourism Month” in November, where 85,000 people enjoyed hundreds of tours and performances for just 18 ILS. It was such a success that we are bringing it back for 2026. We are also supporting local authorities with grants to market unique regional events and operating “Business Incubators” to help small tourism startups turn a dream into a regulated, marketed reality.
Building for the future requires physical space. Are there plans to expand hotel capacity despite the recent instability?
Absolutely. We are looking toward a goal of 7 million tourists by 2030. To get there, we need rooms. In 2025 alone, we approved 180 million ILS in grants for new hotel projects, which will add 2,050 rooms to the market. We’ve also launched a “Planning Revolution.” We now allow developers to use up to 49% of hotel-designated land for residential purposes. This creates economic certainty for entrepreneurs, helping them finance hotel construction more quickly. We also established the “Lighthouse” unit , which provides a “fast-track” concierge service for developers, guiding them through every regulatory hurdle from the first drawing to the grand opening.
Finally, what is your message to the international travel community and the local tourism entrepreneurs?
To our partners overseas: Israel is a place of unmatched history and vibrant life. We are waiting for you with open arms. To our local entrepreneurs: Use us. The Ministry is your partner. Whether it’s through the Lighthouse unit, our professional training for guides, or our innovation community connecting startups with industry needs - your success is the country’s success. We are also looking forward. Next week, we will award the “Minister’s Award for Sustainable Tourism” to two groundbreaking projects. We aren’t just rebuilding; we are building a smarter, greener, and more accessible Israel for everyone.
T he Biblical Museum of Natural History is proud to announce the grand opening of the Rand Mineral Collection, a spectacular new exhibition that showcases the extraordinary beauty and diversity of the natural world. This world- class display officially opens its doors with a festive gala evening held in English. The event will feature fascinating keynote presentations from renowned collector Jonathan Rand and the museum’s director, Rabbi Dr. Natan Slifkin, offering guests a first look at one of the most significant collections of its kind in the region. The collection was gifted to the museum through the generous donation of Jonathan and Anne Rand and comprises an incredible 582 minerals meticulously gathered over nearly a decade. Among these
are over 100 world-class specimens sourced from the most famous and sought-after mines across the globe. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to see unique crystal formations that are seldom found outside of major international metropolitan museums, making this a must-see destination for tourists and locals alike. Jonathan Rand’s passion for mineralogy is a lifelong journey that began with a simple love for rocks and shells during his childhood. A defining moment in his life was a river rafting trip through the Grand Canyon with his father-a journey so impactful that he still keeps a rock from that trip today. As a teenager, his talent was recognized with an Earth Science award, and he continued to collect specimens from every corner of the world.
A Sparkling New Addition: The Biblical Museum of Natural History Unveils World-Class Mineral Collection Experience the breathtaking Rand Mineral Collection this February through exclusive lectures, family events, and a stunning display of the earth’s most rare treasures
Israel Travel News • 5
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