Belavia and Arkia Airlines Resume Direct Flights Between Minsk and Tel Aviv in 2026, Enhancing Tourism, Business, and Family Connections

Published on December 6, 2025

Starting from 2026, Belavia and Arkia Airlines are going to renew direct flights between Belarus and Israel. Belavia is going to restart its flights from Minsk to Tel Aviv on January 8, 2026, while Arkia Airlines will start flying on February 2, 2026. These direct air routes are bound to create a considerable travel effect, establishing much closer tourism and economic ties between the two countries.

This marks the full restoration of air connectivity between Belarus and Israel, which was disrupted in 2022 due to geopolitical reasons. The renewal of these direct routes coincides with the period when both countries seek to revive their tourism sectors, creating new opportunities for cultural exchange, business expansion, and family visits.

Tourism Growth: Connecting Belarus and Israel

The resumption of direct flights will undoubtedly boost tourism between the two countries, offering easier and more convenient travel for tourists from Israel to Belarus and vice versa. As Israel is one of the largest markets for tourists visiting Eastern Europe, the return of these direct connections is set to increase the number of Israeli tourists exploring Belarus, particularly its rich cultural heritage and historical sites. Likewise, the Belarusian tourism sector stands to benefit from an influx of Israeli travelers looking to experience Belarusian landmarks, natural attractions, and the country’s unique cultural offerings.

With direct air connectivity, travelers no longer have to deal with long layovers or multiple connections, making both business and leisure travel more accessible. This is likely to encourage extended stays and exploration beyond the capitals, benefiting not just Minsk and Tel Aviv, but also regional tourism in both countries.

Economic Impact: Business and Investment Opportunities

In addition to promoting tourism, the resumption of direct flights will provide a much-needed economic boost by improving business travel and cross-border collaboration. Israel is home to a dynamic start-up ecosystem, while Belarus is known for its manufacturing and technology sectors, making them natural partners for business exchange. With direct flights, business executives and investors can travel more efficiently for meetings, conferences, and trade negotiations, ultimately fostering stronger economic ties.

These air routes are also likely to stimulate trade flows between Israel and Belarus, increasing access to goods and services and encouraging more investment in both countries. As economic opportunities grow with these improved travel connections, both nations can expect increased foreign direct investment and enhanced collaborations across multiple industries, including technology, agriculture, and manufacturing.

Cultural Exchange and Strengthening Bilateral Relations

The return of direct flights also presents an opportunity for increased cultural exchange between Israel and Belarus. With Israel’s rich history, vibrant culture, and tourist attractions, paired with Belarus’s charming cities, natural beauty, and historic sites, direct flights will make it easier for people to experience each other’s cultures more directly. This can lead to deeper cultural connections and greater understanding, which often result in long-term partnerships and increased tourism engagement.

Cultural events such as exhibitions, festivals, and art performances from both countries will likely gain exposure, attracting tourists with diverse interests. Increased travel between Minsk and Tel Aviv opens avenues for the tourism industry to collaborate, with Israel and Belarus both benefiting from cross-cultural tourism initiatives that celebrate their shared history and distinctive cultural identities.

Future Travel Impact: Expanding Connectivity and Growth

The re-establishment of direct flights between Belarus and Israel is expected to have a long-term impact on regional tourism and economic development. As demand for easy access between Israel and Eastern Europe continues to grow, other countries in the region could benefit from improved air routes as well, leading to further regional connectivity and tourism growth. The opening of these direct routes lays the groundwork for other potential cross-border collaborations, particularly in the tourism and business sectors.

As travel continues to evolve, there is also potential for additional flights and expanded air services between other cities in Israel and Belarus, which could lead to seasonal routes or more frequent connections to accommodate growing demand. The air travel sector’s expansion between the two countries will likely promote tourism development, enhance global competitiveness, and provide greater travel choices for people across both regions.

Restoring Connectivity and Driving Future Tourism Growth

Thus, the renewal of direct flights will definitely contribute to tourism growth, business exchanges, and cultural engagement between Belarus and Israel. With both Belavia and Arkia Airlines offering regular flights, tourists and businesspeople will have a direct, efficient means to explore and connect with each other’s countries.

In the years to come, these air routes will continue to drive tourism development and economic activity, foster deeper bilateral relations, and provide lasting opportunities for cultural and business exchange. With growing demand for travel, this reopened travel corridor will be an important link not only for tourists but also for businesses and investors who are eager to capitalize on better relations between Israel and Belarus.

Image Source: Belavia