Israel, March 2, 2026 – The Israeli Ministry of Tourism is informing travel industry partners about the current situation for tourists presently in Israel. Israel is acting in accordance with established and predefined emergency procedures. All relevant authorities are continuously monitoring the situation and coordinating closely with tourism stakeholders such as hotels, tour guides, incoming agencies, tour operators, and travel agencies.

Under the direction of Tourism Minister Haim Katz, the Ministry is currently operating in emergency mode. In addition to supporting residents who have had to leave their homes, the Ministry is also assisting foreign guests who wish to leave the country.

Over 37,000 Tourists Currently in Israel

As of March 1, 2026, approximately 37,400 tourists are currently in Israel. Since the beginning of the current situation, about 700 of them have left the country. The Ministry is prepared to assist travelers who wish to depart, if necessary, by organizing transportation to land border crossings. At the same time, the Ministry is in continuous communication with the Israel Incoming Tour Operators Association, which, among other things, handles the coordination of tour groups.

In parallel, the Ministry is responsible for accommodating individuals who have been evacuated due to attacks. So far, more than 280 people have been housed in hotels. This is based on a pre-established emergency framework with a broad room contingent, implemented in cooperation with the Israel Hotel Association.

24/7 Information Service for Tourists in Israel

The Ministry's Director General, Michael Izhakov, has also ordered the strengthening of the virtual 24/7 information office. Since the beginning of the current situation, approximately 500 inquiries have been processed, many of which require individual support and are answered directly by Ministry staff. Furthermore, the Ministry is in ongoing contact with all sectors of the industry (hotels, travel agencies, tour guides, and tourism service providers) and continuously receives situation assessments regarding specific local needs.

The Israeli Ministry of Tourism recommends relying exclusively on official sources of information:

• Home Front Command (guidelines in multiple languages): https://www.oref.org.il/eng
  Note: This link is only accessible within Israel.

• Home Front Command toll-free number: 104

• Ministry of Tourism Virtual Service Center (24/7):
  https://www.gov.il/he/service/virtual_office
  Contact (via WhatsApp only): +972 (0)53-5835808
  Email: virtual@goisrael.gov.il

• Emergency Information for Tourists:
  https://www.gov.il/he/pages/emergency-information-for-tourists

• Current information on airport status (Ben Gurion Airport):
  https://www.iaa.gov.il/en/airports/ben-gurion/notifications-and-updates/

The Ministry emphasizes that the safety and well-being of all visitors are of utmost priority. Tourists will have access to assistance, information, and support at all times.

Information on Land Border Crossings

• Menachem Begin Crossing (Taba): open 24/7
  
• Yitzhak Rabin Crossing (Arava): 06:30–20:00
  
• Allenby Bridge Terminal: 09:00–17:00 (tourist processing until 14:30)
  
• Jordan River Crossing (Beit She’an): 08:30–17:00 (arrival at terminal until 15:30)

It is also important to pay border fees in advance if possible. By paying the fee before your arrival at the respective border crossing, you reduce your waiting time and help avoid congestion at payment counters. Advance payment is possible via BorderPay: https://borderpay.metropolinet.co.il/. 

Travelers should also arrive at the respective border crossing at least two hours before the official closing time. As all information can change at short notice, it is recommended to check current information from the relevant authorities before departure.
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About the Israel Government Tourist Office in Germany:

Whether it's round trips, city breaks, bathing, wellness, active and cultural trips, rental car tours, or family holidays: The Israel Government Tourist Office provides information about the various regions, cities, and sights in the Holy Land. Israel is located in the Eastern Mediterranean and is no more than a four-hour flight from most parts of Europe. The country offers a sunny climate, a wide variety of historical, archaeological, and religious sites, and a captivating contrast between ancient and modern. In Israel, visitors are welcomed with traditional hospitality that dates back to biblical times. goisrael.com

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