The Hebrew year 5779 (2018-19) is expected to end with an all-time record of 4.6 million tourist arrivals, compared with 3.9 million in 5778 (2017-18), a whopping 18% increase, the ministry of tourism reported.
According to the ministry’s press release, around 24,000 tourists are expected to arrive in Israel for Rosh Hashanah, and this week, an estimated 82,000 tourists have already arrived.
Tourism revenue has increased from 19 billion shekel ($5.5 billion) in 5778 to 22.4 billion shekel ($6.38 billion) in 5779.
Tourism Minister Yariv Levin, who is also busy these days running PM Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition negotiations) said in a statement: “This is the third consecutive record-breaking year for incoming tourism and this year we are seeing an 18% increase and 4.6 million tourists expected to arrive in Israel by the end of the Hebrew year. These impressive increases are a direct result of the strenuous work and revolutionary changes made by the Ministry of Tourism, with an emphasis on expanding accommodation options in the country and reducing the cost of vacationing in Israel. This year, too, the tourism industry continues to establish itself as a significant contributor to both the economy and employment. I wish you all a Happy New Year and continued significant achievements in tourism!”
Director-General of the tourism ministry Amir Halevi said in a statement: “We are ending another Hebrew year of record-breaking tourism to Israel. The Ministry of Tourism will continue to promote diverse tourism products and brands, in order to increase supply and continue the upward trend in incoming tourism. The momentum in the tourism industry creates opportunities and we are happy with the trend of increasing numbers of entrepreneurs who see tourism as an economic growth engine and invest in Israel. Happy new year to all.”