Is Visiting Israel Still Safe?

Israel is currently closed to non-citizens or non-residents of Israel arriving from anywhere in the world, with entry being refused to those who are vaccinated and some recovered. However, in exceptional cases, approval may be applied by the Foreign Ministry. As coronavirus rates in Israel spike to record levels, many travelers are wondering if it is safe to travel to Israel.

On January 9, Israel will reopen its borders to vaccinated and recovered foreign tourists. The US government has also restricted travel to Northern Israel, and the State Department advised travelers worldwide to exercise increased caution due to the Israel-Hamas war.

The Foreign Correspondence Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to the West Bank, excluding East Jerusalem and Route 1 between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Tel Aviv and the center of Israel are currently safe, and citizens and tourists can travel throughout the rest of the country without restrictions.

Personal safety in Israel is always high and crime is very low. The UK Foreign Office currently warns against all travel to large parts of Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories over safety concerns. The latest update continues to advise reconsidering travel to Israel due to the volatile security situation and the ongoing regional armed conflict.

Is it safe to go on the Holy Land tour?

Israel is generally safe for tourists, despite the country having experienced conflicts this century. Ben Gurion Airport, the main international and busiest airport in Israel, conducts thorough screening and strict security measures, making it one of the safest airports in the world. It has not had a major security threat in almost 50 years. Officials from other airports have also looked to Ben Gurion’s best practices to improve their facilities.

Outside the airport, there is a constant security presence to ensure everyone’s safety. Life in Israel carries on as normal, with people haggling in markets, shopping, dining at restaurants and cafes, enjoying nightlife at bars, and going about their daily business. Holiday destinations like holy sites in Jerusalem, beautiful beaches in Eilat, desert attractions in Negev, and art museums in Tel Aviv are filled with tourists year-round.

Can I still visit Jerusalem?

Israel is a popular destination for tourists, with various airlines operating flights and hotels available. Sirens are rare, and the Iron Dome is a safe zone to follow in case of a siren. All parts of Israel, except the northern border confrontation line, have been declared safe by the National Emergency Portal of Israel. Citizens and tourists can travel freely throughout the country.

Our Israel tour packages offer guaranteed departures, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Choose from Classic Highlights of Israel Tour Packages, Christian Holy Land Tour Packages, Budget Israel Travel Packages, or any other package style. All accommodations, tours, transfers, and meals are taken care of, leaving you to relax and enjoy your trip. If you have specific needs, our team can customize your tour package.

We also have experience planning private Israel tour packages for those seeking a more intimate exploration. Our Israel tour packages provide the best way to experience the country without worrying about logistics before or during your trip.

Is it safe to visit Tel Aviv?

Tel Aviv is generally safe with zero gun crime and mugger incidents, and violent crime is rare. However, some areas, such as Neve Shaanan, can be run-down and may not be suitable for tourists. For around eight years, the area has seen prostitutes, homeless junkies, and drug deals on Google Streetview. This area is considered the worst crime area in Tel Aviv, and it is considered “up and coming” due to its reputation. It is unlikely that anyone would be the victim of such crimes as a tourist.

Can tourists go to Israel in 2024?

The Israeli government has postponed the submission of an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) for non-Israeli citizens from visa-exempt countries until January 1, 2025.

Is it safe to go to Israel right now?

U. S. citizens are advised to reconsider travel due to terrorism and civil unrest, as security situations remain unpredictable. The US government is currently restricting personal travel to certain locations within seven miles of the Gaza demarcation line, Ashdod and Ashkelon, and 1. 5 miles of the Israel-Egypt border. Additional travel restrictions may be imposed without notice due to increased security issues or threats. Citizens are encouraged to increase their security awareness and take necessary precautions.

Can I enter Israel as a tourist?

To travel to Israel, U. S. and Canadian citizens require a valid passport at least six months longer than their arrival date. For stays up to three months, no visa is required. For non-U. S. citizens, the same conditions apply to citizens of most western countries.

Israel is considered safe to travel to, with 3 to 4 million tourists visiting annually. The safety of Israeli airlines is a top priority, with EL AL Israel Airlines, Arkia Israel Airlines, and Israir offering exceptional security measures. Security interviews may seem intrusive or repetitive, but they are designed to protect passengers and ensure a safe journey.

When leaving Israel, the departure process is the same for all airlines. The security measures taken by Israeli airlines are renowned and the envy of the world’s airlines. It is essential to answer questions truthfully and avoid losing your cool during these interviews.

Why are flights to Israel suspended?

Delta, American, and United Airlines stopped flying to Israel after the Hamas attack on October 7, leading to the start of the war. United suspended its service indefinitely. Other international airlines, including El Al, British Airways, Air France, Wizz Air, and flydubai, resumed flights to Tel Aviv and other cities. German airline Lufthansa announced a security analysis halting all Middle East flights to Tel Aviv, Amman, Beirut, Teheran, and Erbil through Monday.

Is Israel cheap to visit?

Budget travelers can expect to spend $50-$70 per day in Israel, including accommodation, food, transportation, and activities. Mid-range travelers can expect $100-$150 per day. To create a budget-friendly trip, research activities and costs and plan accordingly. The cost of a 2-night, 3-day trip to Israel can vary depending on factors like travel style, accommodation, transportation, and activities. A rough estimate for a budget traveler is around $100-$150 per day.

Can I travel to Palestine now?

The statement advises against non-essential travel and reconsidering the necessity of staying in certain areas, including Gaza, border areas with Gaza and Lebanon, and the West Bank (excluding East Jerusalem), due to the volatile security situation.

Is Bethlehem safe to visit?

The West Bank, excluding East Jerusalem, is a popular tourist destination due to its unpredictable security situation, characterized by ongoing tensions and violence between Israelis and Palestinians, including in tourist destinations like Bethlehem, Jericho, and Ramallah.

Are tours to Israel cancelled?

The company is cancelling all tours departing or traveling to Israel until 30 November 2024 due to the ongoing conflict in southern Israel near the Gaza border and changes to international travel advice.