After years marked by the global pandemic and the international conflict following the October 7 attacks, tourism in the Holy Land is slowly showing signs of recovery.
Israel’s Ministry of Tourism described 2025 as a turning point, with 1.3 million international tourists. Although this figure is still far from the pre-2020 levels, it still represents progress.
Around 400,000 visitors traveled from the United States alone, followed by France and the United Kingdom. Each tourist spent more money, averaging $1,600 spent compared to $1,400 spent on average the previous year, not including airfare. However, stays were shorter, averaging nine nights versus eleven in 2024.
According to the authorities, this gradual upturn may be due to two factors: first, there was the restoration of air connections, and second, pilgrims’ fear of returning to the Holy Land is on the decline, despite the fact that peace has not yet been achieved in the region.
An official survey revealed that 88% of visitors said they were satisfied with their experience and 83% said they would recommend it as a destination.
It is clear that the vast majority of these visits are driven by the area’s strong spiritual appeal, with cities like Jerusalem among the world’s most sought-after religious destinations.
The city is sacred to Jews, Christians, and Muslims, attracting millions of pilgrims each year. Key sites located there include the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Western Wall, and the Temple Mount.
In addition, the country contains thousands of years of biblical history within a small territory. It is the place where Jesus was born and died. For many people, this makes the journey spiritually meaningful beyond tourism.
All of this means that the return of travelers has a value that goes beyond economics and is interpreted as a sign of future stability.
BAM
