ITN - ISRAEL TRAVEL NEWS ONLINE - May 2025

Israel Travel News, an English language professional publication focusing on incoming tourism to Israel.

№ ??? 〉 January 2019 № 447 〉 May 2025

May 2025

WELCOME TO

06 The Ministry of Tourism Encourages More Hotels in Residential Spaces

17 Timetable IMTM Exhibition 2025

14 UK Visitors to Israel up by 35%, says Ministry of Tourism

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CONTENTS May 2025

ISRAEL TRAVEL NEWS

Israel Tourism Recovery in Incoming Tourism in March?

Israir Cleared for US flights, Eyes Passover 2026 Launch Centrum Air Launches Tel Aviv -Tashkent Flights

The Ministry of Tourism Encourages More Hotels in Residential Spaces

Page 14

Arkia Extends Tel Aviv-New York Route Until at Least October, Adds New Destinations

Israel’s Image Abroad is Paralyzing Incoming Tourism

Wizz Air Renews Direct Route Tel-Aviv - Naples

Page 08

Zimbabwe-Israel Partnership to Boost Tourism and Agriculture Israel Hires Tourism Commissioner for North America Tourist Groups from Kerala have been Visiting the Holy Land Modi’in Emerges as Israel’s New Tourism Powerhouse UK Visitors to Israel up by 35%, says Ministry of Tourism IMTM 2025 List of Main Exhibitors IMTM 2025 Lectures, Conferences & Events IMTM 2025

Hainan Airlines is Returning with a Direct Route from Tel Aviv International Flights to Israel See Significant Resumption in April 2025 Hotels Fattal Hotels Chain Launches the Unique Urban Boutique Hotel: Bazaar The New Gimnasium Hotel, from the Isrotel Hotel Chain, Opens in Tel Aviv The Luxurious U-Boutique Hotel Reopens on the Sea of Galilee

Page 13

Since 1979

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Founded by: Amos Kinamon (1925-1994) Publisher & Editor-in-Chief: Eyal Shmueli Managing Director: Tal Shmueli

Editorial: Shy K. Segev Marketing: Yuval Nevo Graphic Designer: Magat Layout: A.N. Computer Services Worldwide Circulation Canada

Map IMTM 2025

Kibbutz Kalya Leases Almog Resort for 20 years

800

Europe

4,000 1,300 9,800 2,700 650

Aviation El Al to Resume Direct Tel Aviv to Moscow Flights in May 2025 Hainan Airlines Resumes Tel Aviv-Beijing Route

Israel

Assaf Ben-Dov Leaves Africa Israel - On His Way to the Top of Jacob Hotels The Design Revolution at Caesar Premier Hotel Chain

United Kingdom United States Rest of World

Total

19,250 67,000

Estimated readership

Digital copies - 35,000 distributed throughout the world

2 • www.itn.co.il

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Enjoy the distinctive hospitality, design, atmosphere, flavors and style of each of our hotels across Israel. Prima Hotels Israel are waiting for you with open arms

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ISRAEL TOURISM

May 2025

The reality is completely different, and the industry is in the worst condition it has known since the outbreak of the war Recovery in Incoming Tourism in March?

Yossi Fatael, CEO of the Incoming Tour Operators Association in Israel: “There is no other industry in such a deep crisis in the Israeli

A ccording to the Central Bureau of Statistics, approximately 100.7 thousand tourists entered Israel during the month of March 2025, compared to 78.6 thousand last year, and 351.9 thousand in March 2023. The Incoming Tour Operators Association in Israel emphasizes that this is not a recovery as the numbers suggest and that the industry is in the deepest crisis it has ever known and as it has been since the

month of March, of which approximately 100.7 thousand were tourists. In addition, the announcement also published visitor arrival figures for the first quarter of 2025, according to which 271.5 thousand visitors entered Israel, compared to 206.7 thousand in 2024. What may resemble a recovery, the Incoming Tour Operators Association

because it is also not a representative year, since it was the year in which Israel emerged from the Corona crisis. Yossi Fatael, CEO of the Incoming Tour Operators Association in Israel: “There is no other industry in such a deep crisis in the Israeli economy as the inbound tourism industry. In March 2023, only 65% of the tourists who were supposed to enter entered in a normal year, the last of which was 2019, and since then, world order has been reversed. The tourists who enter Israel today are not tourists in the classic sense of the word. Tourism consists mainly of solidarity delegations, Orthodox students, family visits and businesspeople, so the picture is much more

economy as the inbound tourism industry.”

difficult than the numbers show. Unfortunately, the State of Israel is abandoning the industry, which in normal times provides for 15 percent of jobs in the periphery. The Foreign Ministry received a budget of approximately 500 million shekels to improve its image in the world, but Israel’s voice is not heard, while tourism to Israel is an almost exclusive tool for restoring Israel’s image and status in the world”.

in Israel explains, is nothing more than a

misinterpretation of the data. The Incoming Tour Operators Association in Israel emphasizes that the last good year for inbound tourism was 2019, before the Corona crisis, when about 450 thousand visitors entered in March. The comparison to 2023, they explain, is irrelevant

beginning of the war. In the announcement

by the Central Bureau of Statistics published today (April 6th, 2025) on visitor arrivals to Israel in March 2025, it is emphasized that approximately 102.3 thousand visitors entered Israel during the

4 • www.itn.co.il

ISRAEL TOURISM

May 2025

The Ministry of Tourism Encourages More Hotels in Residential Spaces

The goal: to encourage new entrepreneurs to enter the hotel industry and increase the supply of guest rooms in Israel through economic certainty The ministry and the administration are also

P lanning and Building Council, headed by Rabbi Natan Elnatan, today approved an unprecedented reform in tourism, led by Minister Haim Katz, and in cooperation with the Planning Administration. This is a significant change in the field of hotel planning, centered on the addition of residential areas in areas designated for hotels. The move is intended to ensure the economic feasibility of new projects and thus encourage the construction of thousands of guest rooms, which will provide a solution to the shortage in Israel and increase competition. The main change is that on a plot designated for hotels, for

which a building permit has not yet been received, it will be possible to add residential areas at a rate of up to 49% of the total area permitted for construction on the plot. Among the conditions for the addition of residential areas: the exercise of all hotel rights first; the residences will not be on the first line to the sea or an open landscape; they will be physically and functionally separated from the hotel; an appraisal opinion proving that without the addition of residential areas, there is no economic viability for the construction of the hotel, and the approval of the Ministry of Tourism for this. The sale of the residences will

help overcome the difficulty in obtaining financing for hotels, which stems from the instability of the industry. The reform will, as stated, provide a solution to the difficulty in obtaining financing in the industry through a controlled combination of residences, without harming the central tourism designation. The Ministry of Tourism will examine the conditionality for the entrepreneur to choose a grant track or a mix of uses.

approving additional steps to increase the number of hotel rooms: • Increasing the number of guest rooms that can be built in a hotel in the rural area

from 100 today to 200. • Repealing the ban on building hotels in an

integrated rural fabric, which mainly includes the villages of the center of the country. • Allowing hotels in buildings

for preservation in open areas – approval of the

construction of hotels in old buildings for preservation, which are usually abandoned, and which are located in open spaces throughout the country (such as mandatory police buildings, etc.).

6 • www.itn.co.il

Caesar Premier Hotels Israel

TIBERIAS / JERUSALEM / EILAT

A perfect combination between historical sites and today’s comfort, situated near the main tourist locations.

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PREMIER ISRAEL

ISRAEL TOURISM

May 2025

ISRAEL’S IMAGE ABROAD IS PARALYZING INCOMING TOURISM

Incoming Tour Operators Association in Israel held a strategic meeting to discuss the problem of Israel’s image that has paralyzed tourism to Israel since the outbreak of the war

T he management of the Incoming Tour in Israel held a special meeting under the title “We Will Not Give Up on Israel”, with the aim of formulating courses of action for the restoration of Israel’s status and image by the private market in the absence of treatment and response from the state. As part of the meeting Operators Association held this week in Kibbutz Shefayim, the participants discussed the current trends in the global tourism market and the adjustments required in marketing Israel. In addition, the participants worked to draft a service charter for tourists who would consider coming to Israel, within the framework of which a customized

experience is guaranteed that also ensures the safety and security of the tourists. As part of the discussions, it emerged that if the issue of Israel’s image is not addressed, the industry will collapse completely. About two-thirds of the expert workers in the field have left the industry since the beginning of the war, and only about 1,000 remain through special assistance obtained by the Minister of Tourism, Haim Katz. It was also decided during the special seminar to mobilize the Jewish community around the world to promote inviting family members and non-Jewish acquaintances to come and visit Israel. It is clear to the members of the Association that the fate of the industry is tied to Israel’s

status and image, and as such they feel compelled to act within the very limited means at their disposal in order to save the image of Israel and the industry. Only when tourists return to Israel will Israel and Israelis be welcome abroad, and the first audiences to return will be Israel fans, Jews, and pilgrims to the holy places. Lior Gelfand, Chairman of the Incoming Tour Operators Association in Israel: “Israel’s image and status directly affect the Incoming Tour Operators, which has been almost completely shut down since the outbreak of the war. In the absence of effective action on behalf of the state, we have decided to act now and prepare in advance for the day when tourists return to Israel and examine

how tourists can become ambassadors for Israel.” Yossi Fatael, CEO of the Incoming Tour Operators Association in Israel: “A country’s image and status are a strategic asset, as also stated in position papers published by the Institute for National Security Studies – INSS. Governments around the world invest heavily in the issue of state image, including through inbound tourism. Unfortunately, the State of Israel is neglecting the field, and in the process, economic damage has been caused to Israel, especially in the peripheral areas where about 15% of jobs depend on tourists. “We are in direct contact with colleagues from all over the world who tell us that Israel’s voice is not being heard”.

8 • www.itn.co.il

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THE JOY OF THE GALILEE

The David’s Harp Galilee Resort offers breathtaking views of the Sea of Galilee and surrounding hills. 270 rooms combine Biblical inspiration with modern luxury and comfort, creating a truly unique and unforgettable stay for guests seeking relaxation and connection to the land’s rich heritage. Part of the David’s Harp Hotel Chain by Sar-El Group.

TRAVEL IN COMFORT AND STYLE A delightful surprise is the comfort and relaxation you can experience on your journey due to our remarkable fleet of modern and comfortable buses. Features like powerful air conditioner and charging stations, and the most comfortable seats imaginable make your trip from destination to destination one of relaxation and learning, as our expert guides continue to inform and direct you along the way.

TO BOOK WITH SAR-EL TOURS, CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL AGENT TODAY

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May 2025

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10 • www.itn.co.il

May 2025

Israel Travel News • 11

ISRAEL TOURISM

May 2025

Israel Hires Tourism Commissioner for North America

Zimbabwe-Israel Partnership to Boost Tourism and Agriculture

The Israel Ministry of Tourism named Yoram Elgrabli tourism commissioner for North America

Zimbabwe and Israel are set to embark on a collaborative initiative designed to strengthen cooperation in the fields of tourism and agriculture

Y oram Elgrabli will oversee business partnerships and developments, marketing strategy and public relations across the United States and Canada. He will be tasked with leading Israel’s tourism recovery. “With American and Canadian legacy airlines announcing the resumption of flights to Tel Aviv, and Israel looking ahead with optimism and hope for the future, I am committed to strengthening the connection between North America and Israel”, Elgrabli said. “I am incredibly thankful to our dedicated partners and the many visitors who have continued to travel to Israel, even during challenging times. Building on this unwavering support, I am determined to work towards driving tourism growth, aiming for record-breaking numbers both now and in the years to come”. Elgrabli joins the tourism

ministry with over 20 years of experience working for El Al Israel Airlines, most recently as the general manager of North and Central America, leading marketing, sales and operations. He has held other roles at El Al, including chief of the staff, sales and customers division and managing director in Western Europe. Ami Alon, interim deputy director general at the Israel Ministry of Tourism, said, “We are extremely pleased to have Yoram join the Israel Ministry of Tourism as commissioner to North America. With his decades of experience within Israel’s tourism sector, we know he is positioned to excel in his new role to help tourism recover”. Yael Golan had been interim tourism commissioner for North America since Eyal Carlin left the tourism ministry last summer to head North America marketing at El Al.

D uring the launch of the Zim-Israel Connect initiative in Harare, Mr Alson Darikayi – President of Action for Empowerment Zimbabwe, outlined a range of opportunities that lie ahead for both nations: “This initiative seeks to facilitate and promote investment in Zimbabwe,” he said. “We have successfully secured numerous partnerships with Israeli corporations eager to invest significantly across various sectors, including mining, infrastructure development, technology, education, and more”, he added. Guest of honor at the launch, Honorable Ron Levy Musan – the Consul General of Zimbabwe to Israel, articulated the potential for mutual economic growth through the collaboration:

“Our focus is on fostering economic collaboration across diverse sectors, including technology, agriculture, health, security, and tourism. While we have made strides in promoting tourism to Israel, my priority remains to encourage tourism to Zimbabwe. “The Great Zimbabwe and Victoria Falls are not merely landmarks, they are integral to the biblical narrative of Genesis. We aim to attract Bible believers from around the world to experience this rich heritage”, Musan said. This launch comes at a time when the Second Republic’s “friend to all, enemy to none” policy, is yielding positive results as more foreign companies have expressed interest in investing in the country.

12 • www.itn.co.il

May 2025

Tourist Groups from Kerala have been Visiting the Holy Land

“It is very rare to see youths participating in the Holy Land tour. They might plan a trip to Israel and other places in the region but the spots that they visit are non-religious”, says Thomas

T he conflict in the Gaza Strip has not put a damper on those looking to visit the Holy Land and surrounding regions. According to data released by Israel’s ministry of tourism, nearly 50% of the 9,600 visitors from India in 2024 were pilgrim tourists. And, around 90% of these visitors hailed from Kerala. Thomas Mathai, director of Riya Travels and Tours India Pvt Ltd, says, “Despite the strife in Gaza, tours to the Holy Land are happening and that too in comparatively good numbers. Two batches that couldn’t travel when the war was at its fiercest left recently”. According to him, more groups will be making the trip

soon. But, pilgrimage tourism has not caught up with youngsters. “It is very rare to see youths participating in the Holy Land tour. They might plan a trip to Israel and other places in the region but the spots that they visit are non-religious”, says Thomas. “The two groups that are due to leave this month comprise 100 passengers. The elderly are a part of every group. They consider this trip as a fulfilment of their religious aspirations”, he adds. He points out that the groups approached them voluntarily. “We never canvased them.” In May, we have five groups travelling to the Holy Land”, says Thomas. Kandirickal Travels confirmed that though numbers have

dropped since the start of the Gaza conflict, the tours are taking place. It has one group preparing for the tour. “Basically, the peak months are September and October”, an official said. Amruta Bangera, director of marketing, Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT)-India global, said pilgrim tourists constitute a large portion of inbound visitors to Israel. “Individual tourists are very rare. Travelers from India generally want to experience Jerusalem’s Old City, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, floating on the Dead Sea, Jaffa, Haifa, snorkeling in Eilat, Ramon Crater and a city break in Tel Aviv. The biggest attractions among Christian pilgrims are Nazareth and

Bethlehem”, she added. “We are getting a good number of pilgrim groups organized by tour agencies and churches. Many of these groups are led by priests or bishops. We conduct seminars in Kerala to educate them about the facilities to ensure a seamless tourism experience”, Amruta adds.

Pilgrims’ progress

• Nearly 50% of the 9,600 visitors from India in 2024 were pilgrim tourists • Around 90% of these visitors hailed from Kerala • Elderly are part of most groups, while youngsters choose non-religious spots

Israel Travel News • 13

ISRAEL TOURISM

May 2025

Modi’in Emerges as Israel’s

The inauguration of Modi’in’s first hotel property

has marked a critical inflection point for the

New Tourism Powerhouse

city’s tourism sector. The opening represents more than just an addition to the accommodation inventory- it symbolizes economic vitality, tourism readiness, and investor confidence in the city’s long-term growth potential. This new hotel offers both business and leisure travelers a well-positioned lodging option, filling a long-standing gap in the region’s hospitality landscape. Industry analysts believe the hotel will serve as a catalyst for further tourism infrastructure, including cafes, local tour operations, wellness retreats, and cultural festivals. Israel Ministry of Tourism UK said: “We began 2025 with cautious optimism for Israel travel this year and I believe we continue on the right path with the planned growth in tourist infrastructure reflecting that spirit. Visitor numbers for January reflect good progress but still show plenty of room to grow as we encourage people back to the amazing experiences, accommodation and warmest of welcomes that only Israel can offer”.

First Hotel Launch and Green Urban Travel Appeal Between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv

I n a significant development for Israel’s evolving hospitality sector, the city of Modi’in—nestled strategically between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv—has embarked on a transformation journey from a quiet suburban retreat into a burgeoning tourism and hospitality powerhouse. The recent opening of its first-ever hotel signals the city’s growing relevance in domestic and international travel circuits, underscoring

broader urban development and positioning strategies that make it one of Israel’s most dynamic and greenest cities. Tucked almost exactly midway between two of Israel’s most visited cities, Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, Modi’in’s location gives it a strategic edge for tourism growth. While historically perceived as a commuter town or a quiet suburb, Modi’in is now leveraging

entering the country. These numbers still only represent 42% of visitors one that merges modern infrastructure, historical relevance, and sustainable urban design. compared to the 10-year peak of 13,500 from the UK to Israel in the month of January 2023. However, growing optimism for travel to Israel this year persists due to the sustained ceasefire and the return to an almost normalised flight schedule. Tourists are able to fly or book with Wizz Air, Israir, EL AL, easyJet and British Airways, whilst Ryanair also recently announcing a full flight schedule returning for this summer. Michael Ben Baruch, director, its geographic advantage to become a gateway city offering accessibility, comfort, and affordability for travelers looking to explore central Israel without the congestion of major metropolitan areas. Travel professionals and hospitality stakeholders are viewing Modi’in as a next- generation travel destination,

UK Visitors to Israel up by 35%, says Ministry of Tourism

Newly shared statistics show that confidence in Israel tourism continues to grow, with visitor numbers in January up 35% compared to the same month in 2024 (5,800), with 78,000 visitors from across the world UK travellers are the third largest group of visitors to Israel, only behind France and the United States

14 • www.itn.co.il

THE OLD CITY OF AKKO INVITES YOU TO DISCOVER ITS SECRETS ABOVE GROUND AND BELOW

Old Akko (Acre) is a port city situated on a peninsula on the Mediterranean coast in northern Israel. It is known for its well-preserved old city walls. A visit to this ancient city is an important part of the Holy Land experience and one of Israel’s main tourist destinations. Currently home to thousands of residents, Akko is a study of contrasts – the convergence of East and West, modernity and antiquity, beauty and ruins. Known for centuries as the gateway to the Holy Land due to its location as a port of entry for international dignitaries and trade, Akko provides a unique glimpse into the Crusader and Ottoman periods in the region. The subterranean crusader city was revealed and restored under the Ottoman city above. This extraordinary phenomenon was awarded World Heritage Site by UNESCO. POINTS OF INTEREST: The Knights’ Kingdom A 5,000-year old story unfolds inside the halls of the citadel - the museum’ displays and films projected on the walls tell the story of the crusades. During this tour, each visitor receives a headset, and can choose one of 10 different languages. The Hospitaller Fortress The Hospitaller Order, which thrived in Jerusalem during the First Crusader Kingdom (1099-1187) transferred its headquarters to Akko during the Second Crusader Kingdom (1191-1291). The

Hospitallers expanded their headquarters and rebuilt the site, which consisted of two to three floors around a central court as

well as underground sections. The Templars Tunnel

The Templars were a military-monastic order who – in the name of the pope – aided pilgrims and the ailing coming from Europe to visit the holy sites of the Land of Israel. MORE POINTS OF INTEREST: The colorful Market Street and Bazaars are the main thoroughfare of the Old City, running from north to south. One cannot visit the city without tasting the delicious dishes at the wonderful Chef Restaurants and paying a visit at the unique Boutique Hotels. A ferry from Akko to Haifa and from Haifa to Akko is a special experience that offers tourists the chance to enjoy the spectacular views of the cities by sea (times being subject to weather condition). There are Churches, Mosques and Synagogue in Old Akko. Some of them are opened to visits. The “Or Torah” Synagogue in the new city is a site worth seeing. So is the “Al Basha” Turkish Bath and the Seraya, a structure built during Turkish rule in Akko, in the late 18th century, where the offices of the civilian regime officials were located. It is also recommended to visit the galleries in the Old City and the “Okashi” Art Museum as well as the “Treasures in the Walls” Museum.

New in the Knights Halls - Old Akko A spectacular Video Mapping Night Show at an international level, in the Crusader Fortress courtyard, with innovative technology, spectacular colours, original melodies and sights that will leave you in awe!The show will take both adults and children on a historical journey, target date is July, 2025. For more details and to update the dates of the Light and Sound experience, you can contact our Visitor Center. See you in Old Akko!

OLD AKKO (ACRE) Akko is a city that has been shaped by the Romans, Byzantines, Crusaders, Mamelukes, Ottomans and British, and fittingly is today home to brilliantly coexistent mixed population of Muslims, Jews, Christians, Druze and Baha’i.

Video Mapping Night Show in Old Akko

For more information on the city of Old Akko: Phone: +972-4-9956-705/7 | www.akko.org.il/en/ Write to us: info@akko.org.il

LIST OF MAIN EXHIBITORS Exhibitor

May 2025

Booth No.

Exhibitor

Booth No.

1000 UT Travel International company

Israir Airlines and Tourism

Airwallex

ITM

105

Akko

ITTAA

115

Apple Tour - Taiwan

Jerusalem

Arkia

Jezreel Valley

60+61

Ashdod

114

Kfar Bikartem

116+117

Asia Travel

97A

Lametayel

Azerbaijan

Live Tickets

Binyamina-Giv’at Ada

100-101

Lod

Carmelim

100-101

Mateh Yehuda

China / Hinan Airlines

122

Media Ftrip Vietnam

Cyprus

Menashe

100-101

Dave Tours

MK-ILLUMINATION

104

Eilat

109

Modi’in-Maccabim-Re’ut

El Al Israel Airlines

Moshe Novomeiski Visitor Center The Dead Sea

Epilgrim

MSC

71+72

Galilee

Nasa - msoft

Greece

NCL (Norwegian Cruise Line)

83A

Herzliya

77+78

Negev Development Authority

107

Hungary

Netanya

InterContinental David Tel Aviv Hotel

80+81

Next Travel

125

Israel Hotel Association

Nofshon Tours

111

Israel Incoming Tour Operators Association

97C

Ortra ltd

Business Lounge

Israel Ministry of Tourism

Out 4 In

Israel Nature and Parks Authority

102

Panama

Israel Travel News

Business Lounge

Panomax

Israel Youth Hostels Association I.Y.H.A

Pardes Hanna-Karkur

100-101

continue on page 20 >>

16 • www.itn.co.il

LECTURES, CONFERENCES & EVENTS

Wednesday, May 7

11:00 - 12:30 Israel Incoming Tour Operators Association – B2B – Meet our Hosted Buyers

10:00 - 10:30 IMTM 2025 Opening Ceremony

11:00 - 12:00 Strengthening Tourism in the Western Negev and the North with Gil Hovav – Conference of Welfare Directors to Support and Strengthen Local Businesses Hall I English | Invitations Only

11:00 - 11:30 The IMTM Tourism Hackathon – Sponsored by Israel Incoming Tour Operators Association

Hall L, Hall M English | Invitations Only

Hall G Hebrew | Invitations Only

Lobby Pavilion 2 English | Open for all

11:30 - 12:30 NCL – Norwegian Cruise Line

12:00 - 13:15 NCL – Norwegian Cruise Line

12:30 - 14:00 Israel Hotel Association

13:30 - 16:00 Israel Association of Travel Agencies and Consultants

Hall I English | Open to All

Hall G English | Invitations Only

Hall H Hebrew | Invitations Only

Hall I Hebrew | Invitations Only

15:00 - 16:00 Discover Panama. More than a Canal

13:30 - 14:30 Passport’s Salon Meet the IMTM Exhibitors

14:00 - 15:00 Ministry of Tourism - Sustainable Tourism: From Slogan to Reality

14:30 - 15:30 QuickLizard – Uri Sirkis: The Yield Management Revolution at Israir Over the Past Three Years, Leading to a Boost in Israir’s Revenues Hall H English | Open to All

Hall G Hebrew | Invitations Only

Hall K English | Open to All

Thursday, May 8

11:00 - 12:00 The IMTM Tourism Hackathon – Sponsored by Israel Incoming Tour Operators Association

09:30 - 10:30 Strengthening Tourism in the Western Negev and the North with Gil Hovav –"Traveling Community" Conference to Support and Strengthen Local Businesses Hall I Hebrew | Invitations Only

10:00 - 13:30 The Annual Meeting of Israel Incoming Tour Operators Association

15:30 - 19:00 The Association for Israeli Tour Guides Abroad

Hall G, Hall H Hebrew | Invitations Only

Hall I Hebrew | Invitations Only

* Schedule subject to changes

Israel Travel News • 17

18 • www.itn.co.il

VENUE FLOOR PLAN PAVILION 2

Israel Travel News • 19

LIST OF MAIN EXHIBITORS Exhibitor

May 2025

Booth No.

Exhibitor

Booth No.

Passport News

83B

SUFA

125A

Petah Tikva

65+66

Sun D’or

QuickLizard

Taiwan - Taipei Economic and Cultural office in Tel Aviv

Red Bus

126

Tal Aviation

Romania

Tel Aviv Global & Tourism

97B

Rosh-Hanikra

Travel Republic Africa

Rubin Tourism

105

Weekend

Sarah Tours - Morocco / France

Wow IndiaTravel

Shukabit.co.il

Xsite

Simple Profit

97D

Yad Vashem

Slovakia

Zikhron Ya’akov

100-101

Sports Events 365

Uncover the Story of Civilization The Bible Lands Museum Jerusalem Step into a world where ancient treasures tell the story of humanity. The Bible Lands Museum Jerusalem houses an extraordinary collection that brings biblical history to vivid life. Through 20 magnificent galleries, discover rare artifacts from the great civilizations that shaped our world – Egypt, Babylon, Canaan, Assyria, Sumer, Persia, Greece, and Rome. Marvel at exquisite hand-crafted jewelry, classical sculptures of breathtaking beauty, and priceless artworks that have endured millennia. Each piece in our collection opens a window into the lives of those who walked these lands in biblical times. Whether you’re planning an intimate tour or hosting a grand event for up to 400 guests, our museum offers a uniquely profound setting. Let our expert guides create an experience that weaves the treasures of antiquity into your special occasion.

The Bible Lands Museum Jerusalem Where ancient stories come alive. 21 Shmuel Stefan Wise, Museum Row, Jerusalem +972-2-5611066 | contact@blmj.org | www.blmj.org

20 • www.itn.co.il

A NEW COLOR BY FATTAL

Israel Travel News • 21

AVIATION

May 2025

HAINAN AIRLINES RESUMES TEL AVIV-BEIJING ROUTE

EL AL TO RESUME DIRECT TEL AVIV TO MOSCOW FLIGHTS IN MAY 2025

Carrier announces will operate 2 weekly flights on route to Chinese capital C hina’s Hainan Airlines will resume direct flights between Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion International Airport and Beijing, operating twice weekly starting April 10. The airline, which already operates a direct route to Shenzhen, is among several international carriers returning to Israel after suspending operations due to the war with Hamas. Round-trip fares between April 10-17, including carry-on luggage, start at 1,059 USD, with similar pricing available for May 13-19. Roy Kriezman, Consul, Tourism Affairs Shanghai Israel Ministry of Tourism: “Excited to celebrate the relaunch of direct flights from Beijing to Tel Aviv together with our strategic partner, Hainan Airlines. It was an incredible event marked by the presence of our esteemed media and trade partners, whose support continues to drive strong connections between Israel and China. This milestone not only strengthens tourism and business ties but also highlights the growing collaboration between our countries”. Other major airlines have also announced their return to Israel. Air Canada will resume flights to Tel Aviv on June 8, marking its first operation since suspending service after the Oct. 7 Hamas attack. United Airlines will restart flights to the U.S. in March, followed by Delta Air Lines in April.

El Al will operate seven flights per week on the 2,595km route from its base at Tel Aviv-Ben Gurion Airport (TEL) and Moscow I srael’s El Al Airlines has announced that it intends to resume flights reflects part of El Al’s ongoing efforts to expand its destination network and

between Tel Aviv and Moscow on May 1, 2025. The decision comes after the Israeli national airline determined that Russia’s airspace was safe enough to resume operations following a review. El Al will operate seven flights per week on the 2,595km route from its base at Tel Aviv-Ben Gurion Airport (TEL) and Moscow from the start of May 2025. The airline had continued serving the Russian capital up until the end of 2024 but halted flights after concerns were raised following the downing of an Azerbaijan Airlines flight in December 2024, allegedly caused by Russian anti-aircraft fire. 38 lives were lost in the accident as the stricken aircraft crashed while attempting to land in Kazakhstan. According to an airline statement, El Al had taken the decision to resume flights to Moscow following a situation assessment and ongoing discussions with authorities in Russia to ensure flight safety: “The resumption of flights to Moscow

provide passengers with access to important flight routes”, it said. The flights will operate daily to Moscow’s Domodedovo Airport (DME). While Russia’s state airline Aeroflot halted international flights to the majority of its international destinations in 2022 including Tel Aviv, private Russian carrier Red Wings Airlines has continued to operate regular services between Moscow and Tel Aviv route, using its fleet of Tupolev Tu-204 twinjets. On the same day that it was revealed that El Al would recommence flights to Moscow, the Israel Airport Authority announced in a separate statement that on May 1, 2025, El Al will also be resuming domestic flights between Tel Aviv and the southernmost Red Sea resort city of Eilat, after a 12- year hiatus. The very short 169-mile (270km) route was last served by the carrier in 2013 but was halted due to security concerns at Eilat Airport.

22 • www.itn.co.il

May 2025

ISRAIR Cleared for US flights, Eyes Passover 2026 Launch After receiving approval, Israeli airline works to meet all regulatory requirements set by the Federal Aviation Administration and the US Transportation Security Administration

I n a step toward increasing competition on routes to the United States, Israeli airline Israir announced Monday it has received official approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation to operate flights to the U.S.. The company is now entering the next phase of the process—meeting all regulatory requirements set by the Federal Aviation

Administration (FAA) and the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Israir said final approval is expected by June 2025, in line with the timeline presented to its board of directors, and described the move as a foundation for securing a permanent operating license. “This marks a significant leap forward for the company,” Israir said in a statement,

calling the approval “a vote of confidence in our professionalism, reliability and operational excellence.” The airline said it plans to launch flights around Passover 2026-or possibly earlier-depending on the availability of aircraft secured through long-term dry lease agreements. The flights will be operated by Israir flight crews and aircraft branded

with the airline’s logo. Following the outbreak of war in October 2023, U.S. airlines halted service to Israel, leaving El Al as the sole carrier operating on the route. The first sign of renewed activity came in February when Israeli airline Arkia launched a route to New York. Last month, United Airlines resumed flights to Israel, and this month Delta Air Lines followed suit.

Centrum Air Launches Tel Aviv -Tashkent Flights Centrum Air’s move also caters to Uzbekistan’s sizable diaspora in Israel

growing player in Central Asia’s evolving aviation sector. Centrum Air’s move also caters to Uzbekistan’s sizable diaspora in Israel, offering a more accessible travel option for visiting friends and relatives. With flights scheduled at convenient times and competitive pricing, the route is expected to draw significant demand from both leisure and

business segments. The airline’s expansion reflects Uzbekistan’s broader strategy to boost tourism and improve air connectivity. In recent years, the country has eased visa restrictions and invested in tourism infrastructure to encourage international visits. This direct link from Israel aligns with those efforts and signals growing ties between the two nations.

C entrum Air launches Tel Aviv–Tashkent flights this April, expanding its international network and offering a new direct link between Israel and Uzbekistan. The new route opens up convenient travel opportunities for tourists, business travelers, and the Uzbek diaspora in Israel looking to reconnect with

family or explore new destinations. The inaugural flight from Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport to Tashkent International Airport took off on April 4, 2025, marking a significant step in Centrum Air’s growth. The flights will operate twice a week, on Thursdays and Sundays. This launch further positions the carrier as a

Israel Travel News • 23

AVIATION

May 2025

marking the airline’s first time flying to the United States. The Israeli carrier originally planned to operate the route for a period of three months starting February 8. Berlowitz said that since the route was launched it has been operating with almost 90 percent capacity. The debut of Arkia’s long- haul flight comes as flagship carrier El Al has maintained a monopoly status on the New York route since US carriers have been staying away for most of the past year due to security concerns amid the ongoing war with the Hamas terror group. The lack of competition has led to a severe shortage of seat availability while driving up ticket prices. Arkia will continue to operate three weekly flights from Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport to New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport that take off on Saturday nights just before midnight, and during

ARKIA Extends Tel Aviv-New York Route Until at Least October, Adds New Destinations

the week on Mondays and Wednesdays but leave at noon. Arkia announced that the carrier has 12 planes and plans to launch new routes and fly to 30 destinations, mainly in Europe from March. To mark the launch of the new routes and entice Israelis to book their holidays for the spring and summer seasons, the Israeli airline is rolling out a discount of 20% on all its destinations, apart from the New York route, from Sunday until March 15. Starting in June and July, Arkia will be flying to three new cities — Calamata, Skiathos, and Volos – which add up to 11 destinations in Greece that the carrier will be operating in the coming months. Other new destinations include Zadar in Croatia, Lake Balaton in Hungary, Tirana in Albania and Madrid in Spain.

Expecting rise in demand: Israeli airline plans to fly to 30 destinations, including 11 in Greece I sraeli airline Arkia is added: “After a challenging year and a half of war, there is a need to catch some fresh air”.

extending the operation of its new route to New York until at least October and will add new European destinations as it is betting that Israelis will eagerly return to book their holidays abroad during the spring and summer peak seasons. “We see that the Israeli tourist is gradually returning to planning long-term vacations, alongside last-minute spontaneous vacations”, said Arkia CEO, Oz Berlowitz, and

“At the same time, we are living in a reality where war can return but we have shown that Israeli carriers will always continue to operate when foreign airlines are halting their operation”, Berlowitz added. The announcement comes after Arkia launched direct roundtrip flights from Tel Aviv to New York in early February,

Wizz Air Renews Direct Route Tel-Aviv - Naples Low-cost giant is launching a direct flight from Israel to Naples T he inaugural flight of the new route will take off on October 28, 2025, with the including additional routes to Rome and Milan, Italy.

Italian region of Campania. In addition to the new route to Israel, the company is also expected to launch new routes from the Campania region to Brasov (Romania), Chisinau and Sharm El

Sheikh. In total, the company will operate 13 routes to 8 different countries from the Campania region, with 11 of them from Naples and 2 from Salerno.

The launch of the new route from Ben Gurion Airport to Naples is part of a broader move by the company to deepen its operations in the

route subsequently operating as three weekly flights. The new route will join 17 routes currently operating in Israel,

24 • www.itn.co.il

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AVIATION

May 2025

HAINAN AIRLINES is Returning with a Direct Route from Tel Aviv Will be the only company operating direct flights from Israel to the Chinese capital

T he Chinese airline, Hainan Airlines, announced that it is returning the direct route from Tel Aviv to Beijing, for the first time since it canceled it at the beginning of the war, and will be the only company operating

The Chinese airline will operate the flights to Beijing on new Boeing 787 Dreamliners and will continue to operate the direct route from Tel Aviv to Shenzhen, which departs 3 times a week and was not interrupted throughout the war.

direct flights from Israel to the Chinese capital, in the absence of El Al flights to the destination. The flights from Tel Aviv to Beijing will depart from Ben Gurion Airport twice a week on Mondays and Thursdays at 3:00 PM, and

will land in Beijing the following day on Tuesdays and Fridays at 4:45 AM. The flights from Beijing to Tel Aviv will depart on Mondays and Thursdays at 2:00 AM and land on the same days in Tel Aviv at 7:40 AM (local time).

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS TO ISRAEL SEE SIGNIFICANT RESUMPTION IN APRIL 2025

T he skies over Israel are becoming increasingly busy this April as a significant number of international airlines have resumed or increased their flight operations to Ben Gurion Airport (TLV). This marks a considerable shift towards normalizing air travel to the country after a period of reduced activity. Major carriers from Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East are now operating flights to Tel Aviv. Airlines such as El Al, Arkia, Israir, Ethiopian Airlines, Flydubai, Etihad Airways, United Airlines, ITA Airways, Wizz Air, Air France, British Airways, and Air India are reported to be fully operational. Several airlines that had previously suspended services have already returned in

recent weeks. Delta Air Lines, for instance, resumed its New York-Tel Aviv route on April 1st, following United Airlines' return on March 15th. These resumptions, even if initially with limited capacity, are seen as a positive indicator for the travel industry. Looking ahead, more airlines are slated to rejoin the routes to Israel in the coming months. Air Canada, KLM, and EasyJet have announced plans to resume flights starting June 1, 2025. Other airlines like Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Eurowings, Lufthansa, and Swiss International Airlines are also operating, having announced their return earlier in the year. Despite the positive trend, some airlines still have flight

suspensions in place, with anticipated return dates later in the year. American Airlines flights are reportedly canceled until September 2025, and Cathay Pacific has postponed its return until October 2025. Emirates and Korean Air also show suspended flights until further notice according to some reports. The increase in international flights is expected to significantly boost passenger traffic at Ben Gurion Airport. The Israel Airports Authority projected approximately 1.8 million travelers passing through the airport in April, a substantial increase compared to the same

period last year. While the expanded capacity is welcomed, reports indicate that airfares on some routes, particularly to North America, remain relatively high, although the increased competition is anticipated to potentially influence pricing in the future. Israir is also reportedly planning to launch direct flights to New York City next year, which could further impact the market. The gradual return of international airlines signals a growing confidence in the stability of the region and is a vital step for the recovery of Israel's tourism and business sectors.

26 • www.itn.co.il

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HOTELS

May 2025

FATTAL HOTELS CHAIN LAUNCHES THE UNIQUE URBAN BOUTIQUE HOTEL: BAZAAR

Photos: Maya Ebejer

On the Jerusalem Boulevard in Jaffa: An Experience That Combines Historical Heritage and Contemporary Innovation

H otels announces the launch of the new unique urban boutique hotel, the Bazaar Hotel, located on the rejuvenating Jerusalem Boulevard in Jaffa. The hotel, in which over 90 million ILS were invested (not including the property), located at the fascinating meeting point between Jaffa and Tel Aviv, embodies a magical balance between the worlds: the lively and the calm, the colorful and the first in the Fattal Colors collection, with the elegant, the multicultural and the minimalist, and between the East and the West.

The name Bazaar is not accidental, as the hotel used to serve as a sales fair and draws its design, atmosphere and style from the nearby flea market and the colorful and vibrant atmosphere of the area, while combining artistic elements alongside original items by local creators from the market, which make the hotel a place with a unique story. Guests at the hotel will be able to enjoy 104 rooms and suites, designed with inspiration from the diverse culture of Jaffa, offering a combination of intimate warmth and a modern and

sophisticated atmosphere. In addition, the hotel offers a variety of services that include a designed Parisian bistro, an event hall (which will also open soon), an intriguing patio, a gym and a unique rooftop overlooking the sea and Old Jaffa, where guests can enjoy a rich drinks bar alongside a special menu. Design of the Bazaar Hotel inspired by the market, from designer Omer Leichter, who has a rich portfolio of boutique hotel design, and this time drew his inspiration from the vibrant spirit of the local markets. Leichter made sure to combine rich colors

with a variety of unique works by local artists from the flea market and the surrounding area and chose to decorate the public spaces and rooms with elements that reflect the area’s rich heritage, while combining technological innovation and modern comfort to create a harmony that speaks the language of the region. Throughout the Bazaar Hotel, original and local contemporary artworks are displayed, curated by the curator of the Fattal Hotels Collection, Iris Barak, while referring to the city of Jaffa in all its various shades.

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