ISRAEL TOURISM
November 2026
The Ancient city of Acre has become a Space for Contemporary Art
Welcome to Israel: Rebuilding Connectivity and Warmth for Canadian Travelers
Taimur Mansour has stepped into the role of Consul and Director of Tourism for Canada at the Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT)
The ancient city of Acre in northern Israel has been buzzing in recent days as hundreds of Israeli and international artists have brought various performance art forms to the city’s streets and historical buildings, attracting tens of thousands of visitors
A s Israel looks toward the future of tourism, a newly appointed leadership in North America is laying the groundwork to welcome international visitors back to the heart of the Middle East. Taimur Mansour has stepped into the role of Consul and Director of Tourism for Canada at the Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT). Operating from Toronto, Mansour is embarking on a strategic mission to rebuild traveler confidence, revitalize direct air connectivity, and remind global travel enthusiasts of the vibrant, welcoming daily life that awaits them across Israel. Mansour brings a rich, multifaceted background to this vital position. A member of Israel’s Druze community and fluent in Arabic, Hebrew, and English, he previously served as Director of the Media and Campaigns Department at the Ministry of Tourism in Jerusalem, where he managed global public relations and major marketing initiatives. Having also worked as a professional
tour guide, Mansour offers a deeply personal, hands-on perspective on the country’s diverse cultural tapestry. His primary focus for the Canadian market—which saw nearly 100,000 visitors in 2019—is to foster sustainable long-term growth by working hand- in-hand with travel advisors, airlines, and industry partners. A major cornerstone of this renewal is the recovery of direct travel routes between North America and Israel. In a promising step for international access, Air Canada is scheduling the resumption of its Tel Aviv service out of Toronto starting November 30. Mansour emphasizes that establishing strong, reliable flight options is crucial to making travel seamless for those eager to experience the destination firsthand. Alongside enhanced airlift, the Ministry is prioritizing close collaboration with travel advisors, ensuring they have accurate, up- to-date insights to guide clients seeking authentic and memorable journeys.
T his is part of the Israel Fringe Theatre Festival in Acre, an annual event held in the ancient city on the Mediterranean coast. During the festival, cobblestone alleys, coastal areas, and centuries- old historical buildings become stages for circus performances, dance, acrobatics, fire art, and interactive installations. One of the highlights was “The Mermaid,” featuring an acrobat performing contortions and balancing acts in a large pool of water, both above and below the surface. Alongside this were large-scale fire shows and numerous other outdoor performances. Instead of taking place in permanent theaters, the festival’s programs are set amidst Crusader-era buildings, Ottoman-era structures, narrow streets, and Mediterranean-side
spaces. Therefore, Acre’s historical context becomes part of the artistic experience, creating a unique space for experimental works. This year’s program Theatre Centre, performances by international artists, and works created specifically for public spaces. Visitors can encounter performances right on their way to exploring the ancient city, instead of having to go to a separate performance venue. The festival also contributes to giving Acre a new look, which is known primarily for its historical and heritage values. includes Fringe theatre productions by the Acre Over the past 10 years, the Israeli Ministry of Tourism has invested tens of millions of dollars in the Old Town of Acre, including the Knights’ Hall and the old port, to upgrade tourism infrastructure and improve the visitor experience.
14 • www.itn.co.il
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