Indian travelers will soon be the first in the world eligible for an e-visa program to Israel, potentially launching later this year, according to Amruta Bangera, Marketing Director at the Israel Ministry of Tourism, India. Currently, Israel does not offer e-visas to any country.

Israel aims to attract 70,000 Indian tourists by 2025 and 100,000 by 2026. By September last year, Israel welcomed about 41,800 Indian visitors in 2023, compared to 65,100 in 2019. “We plan to launch an e-visa program by the end of the year to simplify travel for Indian tourists,” Bangera stated.

India is the first to benefit from this initiative, as Israel sees significant potential in the Indian market. Efforts include discussions with IndiGo and Air India to increase flight capacity and partnerships with travel companies for marketing and collaborations.

“We are ensuring it is safe to travel to Israel,” Bangera emphasized. Air India has already increased its flights to Israel and may add daily flights from either Mumbai or Delhi by the year’s third quarter. Israel is also planning digital campaigns, seminars, and agreements with travel agents.

From January to June this year, 5,700 Indian tourists visited Israel, contributing to the 495,300 global tourists. The US and Europe remain Israel’s largest source markets. Major Indian markets include Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kochi, and Hyderabad, with a focus on tier two and three cities.

Pilgrimage accounts for 48% of Indian visitors, followed by leisure (30%), MICE (12%), and others (10%). Israel ensures safety and operational normalcy in cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, stated Pini Shani, Deputy Director-General of Israel Tourism.

Source: The Economic Times