Israel Tourism Sees Strong Recovery in this Year with More than One Million Visitors, Projecting their Continued Growth in 2026 as Infrastructure Improves

Published on December 31, 2025

Despite the difficulties presented by the attack of October 7, 2023, and the resultant war, the Israeli tourism market is recovering. With statistics presented by the Israeli Ministry of Tourism, the country recorded 1.3 million tourists in 2025. This is quite impressive at a time when the country is experiencing a low tourists’ entry rate because of the war. It is worth acknowledging that the tourism market in Israel suffered considerable difficulties following the attack and the resultant suspension of flights and travel advisories around the world.

Top Source Countries for Incoming Tourism

The United States, France, and England led the charge in visitor numbers to Israel, collectively accounting for 55% of all incoming tourists. 400,000 tourists from the United States visited Israel, followed by nearly 160,000 from France and almost 100,000 from England. Other notable countries contributing to the tourism influx included Russia, Germany, Ukraine, Canada, and Romania.

While the geopolitical situation in the region continued to impact tourism, the demand from key countries, particularly the U.S., remains strong. The figures indicate that Israel’s tourism market is resilient, with a substantial portion of visitors coming from long-standing support bases in the Jewish diaspora and other loyal international travelers.

Diverse Tourist Demographics and Spending

Of the 1.3 million visitors, 50% were Jewish, highlighting Israel’s significance as a religious and cultural destination for the global Jewish community. 9% of visitors were Christian pilgrims, a key demographic for Israel’s religious tourism, which includes visits to sites such as Jerusalem, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and Nazareth.

Visitors to Israel tended to stay for an average of nine days, spending around $1,622, excluding flights. The primary reasons for visiting included family or friends, which accounted for 50% of arrivals, followed by those visiting for vacations (14%) and business (12%). This diversity in motivations reflects Israel’s broad appeal as a destination for a variety of traveler types, from religious pilgrims to leisure tourists and business travelers.

High Satisfaction Rates and Future Growth

The satisfaction rate among tourists visiting Israel has remained high, with 88% of visitors reporting they were very satisfied with their trip. Furthermore, 83% of respondents said they would recommend traveling to Israel. These positive experiences are critical as Israel seeks to rebuild and expand its tourism sector in the wake of the recent conflict.

Looking ahead, Israeli Tourism Minister Haim Katz expressed optimism for 2026, projecting that the lifting of travel advisories and the increase in international flights would drive a strong recovery. “The figures for incoming tourist arrivals are encouraging, and the demand for travel to Israel among supporters and in key countries led by the U.S. remains strong,” Katz said.

Future Tourism Growth: A Promising 2026 and Beyond

Israel’s tourism sector is poised for continued growth in the coming years, with 2026 expected to be a year of recovery. The lifting of travel restrictions and increased connectivity are expected to result in higher visitor numbers, particularly from North America and Europe. The government’s focus on promoting tourism and creating new partnerships in key markets will play a critical role in this growth.

One of the most significant drivers of future tourism growth will be Israel’s continued focus on religious tourism, particularly from the Jewish community and Christian pilgrims. With Israel being a key destination for spiritual journeys, particularly to Jerusalem and other sacred sites, the pilgrimage market remains a significant contributor to Israel’s tourism revenue.

Moreover, Israel is increasingly positioning itself as a destination for cultural tourism, adventure tourism, and eco-tourism, offering visitors a combination of modern attractions, historical landmarks, and natural wonders such as the Dead Sea, Masada, and the Negev Desert.

Strengthening Tourism Infrastructure for Sustainable Growth

To support long-term growth in the tourism sector, Israel will continue to invest in its tourism infrastructure, including the development of new attractions, modern transportation systems, and eco-friendly initiatives. The sustainable tourism movement is growing globally, and Israel is making strides to ensure that its tourism sector contributes to environmental conservation and local community development.

The expansion of international flights, particularly direct routes from key markets, will make Israel more accessible to global travelers, increasing its appeal as a year-round destination. As global travel demand continues to rise, Israel’s tourism industry will be well-positioned to capitalize on this growth and increase its market share.

A Bright Future for Israel’s Tourism Industry

Although the challenges faced by Israel’s tourism sector in the last few years were significant, the industry appears to be on a recovery path. With the emphasis on sustainable growth, culture tourism, and accessibility, Israel has the potential to emerge as a major tourism hub in the years to come.

The future for tourism in Israel appears bright, as 2026 signals the start of a promising era of sustained growth and development. As the state presses forward with rebuilding its tourism infrastructure and bolstering its international relations, Israel will increasingly be able to offer an ever-more enticing tourism option to international travelers. The kind of tourism success achieved in 2025 serves as an exemplary foundation upon which even greater triumphs shall be built.