- January 9, 2025
- 6:22 pm
- Israel
The Israeli Ministry of Tourism will launch a new marketing program to support Russian tour operators. A refund of up to 50% of expenses for promoting tourism from Russia to Israel will be provided, as well as compensation for tourists brought to the country.
About the Electronic Entry Permit to Israel (ETA-IL) – “possible difficulties with payment (why is this so? -edit) fees are already being discussed, and work is actively underway to simplify the procedure for Russian tourists.”
Well, yes, Visa and MasterCard have left Russia, but Mir is not accepted in Israel – I wonder what they'll get out?
There is no message about this on the website of the Israeli Ministry of Tourismbut about that proudly proclaims Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR).
Russian media headlines: “Israel expects an increase in the tourist flow from Russia in 2025”, “Israel has recognized the importance of Russian tourists and is preparing special conditions”, “Israel is calling”, “Israeli resort on the Red Sea wants to welcome tourists from Russia again”, “Eilat is preparing for the return of Russian tourists in 2025”, “Israel wants to return Russian tourists”, etc. etc. – anyone else interested – Google it yourself…
Some even writethat “Also, from January 1, 2025, a system of electronic entry permits was introduced, allowing Russian citizens receive free permits online. This will streamline the entry procedure and make travel to Israel more accessible.” (well, this is most likely not true, but SUDDENLY? – ed.).
We have already covered this topic in the article ““Money is above morality?”: Israel stated that it “wants to return Russian tourism to Israel” and is already working on it”but new details are emerging.
The return of Russian tourists to Eilat: what is hidden behind the loud statements
Eilat is ready to open its doors to Russians
Israel announced its intention to resume the tourist flow from Russia to Eilat. Let us recall that at a press conference held on December 23, 2024 in Moscow, representatives of the Israeli Ministry of Tourism and the Israeli Embassy in Russia announced the launch of new programs to support tour operators, plans to open direct flights to Ramon Airport and the return of thousands of tourists from the Russian Federation.
Simone Halperin, Israeli Ambassador to Russia, emphasized:
“We want to see the return of tourists from Russia, as was the case in 2019. Eilat has increased the level of service and is ready to offer unique tourist routes.”
Support program for Russian tour operators
The Israeli Ministry of Tourism is renewing its marketing program, which includes:
- Refund up to 50% of expenses to promote the direction.
- Refunds for every tourist brought to Israel.
- A program of free activities for tourists at the expense of the Eilat municipality.
Vladimir Shklyar, director of the department of the Israeli Ministry of Tourism in the Russian Federation, said:
“Russia ranked first in the number of foreign tourists in Eilat before the pandemic. We are working to restore these indicators.”
“The Israeli Ministry of Tourism is again opening a marketing program to support Russian tour operators. Companies will be reimbursed up to 50% of expenses for promoting the destination. The ministry is also working on another program that will allow money to be returned for every tourist brought to Israel,” added Vladimir Shklyar.
Why is this being criticized?
The decision to resume tourism with Russia is causing mixed reactions both inside and outside Israel.
Key arguments against:
- Threats to Israel's reputation.
In the context of Russia's ongoing aggression against Ukraine, such a decision may be perceived as a violation of the principles of international solidarity.
- Criticism from democratic countries.
The United States and European countries are pursuing a policy of isolating Russia. The return of tourism puts Israel in an awkward position with its key allies.
- Supporting the aggressor's economy.
Incentive programs for tour operators from Russia actually help strengthen the Russian economy, which is contrary to international sanctions.
As analysts note, Israel risks losing the trust of its Western partners, including Ukraine, which counts on support in the fight against aggression.
Tourist flow data
In 2019, Russia was the leader in the number of tourists in Eilat. During the autumn-winter season, the number of Russians amounted to 25 thousand. In 2024, their number dropped to 67 thousand trips to Israel, but forecasts for 2025 are optimistic.
| Year | The number of Russian tourists in Eilat |
|---|---|
| 2019 | 25,000 for the fall-winter season |
| 2024 | 67,000 trips to Israel |
| Forecast for 2025 | Significant growth expected |
International risks for Israel
The Israeli program to support tourism from Russia contradicts the principles of democratic countries that are working to isolate Russia:
- USA and EU strengthen sanctions against Russian companies and the economy.
- Ukraine perceives such actions as a lack of solidarity.
“Any cooperation with Russia today is perceived as morally ambiguous,” – say analysts from the USA.
It could also undermine international efforts to pressure Russia and reduce its influence.
Alternative solutions
Israel should consider other ways to support the tourism sector:
- Increase in tourist flow from other countries, including the USA, Europe and Ukraine.
- Subsidy programs for domestic tourism.
- Development of new tourist destinations consistent with international policies.
Conclusion
Israel's decision to return Russian tourists to Eilat is a move that is causing heated debate. On the one hand, this is an economic necessity. On the other hand, there is a risk of losing the trust of international partners and undermining its reputation as a democratic state.
Read more analytical materials about politics and tourism on the website NAnews – Israel News.
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