The Israel Ministry of Tourism has announced the gradual and safe reopening of its borders, cultural attractions, and major pilgrimage sites to international visitors, including Filipino travelers.

The announcement coincides with the progressive restoration of international airline routes to Ben Gurion Airport and the resumption of nationwide tourism activities under guided, phased protocols.

In a news release on Monday, Israel Ambassador to the Philippines Dana Kursh underscored the development as a vital step toward enhancing bilateral ties and advancing long-term travel connectivity between the two countries.

“My vision is clear: to bring Filipinos to experience Israel, the Holy Land, and a hub of innovation, and to encourage Israelis to discover the Philippines, a nation of more than 7,000 islands known for its rich culture, natural beauty, hospitality, and compassion,” Kursh said.

“Establishing direct flights between our countries will make this vision a reality,” she added.

Under the phased reopening, the Israel Nature and Parks Authority has resumed operations at several heritage and nature locations, including Masada, Ein Gedi, Ein Avdat, Herodium, Tel Megiddo, and Qasr al-Yahud.

Mediterranean coastal sites such as Bet Yanai, Palmahim, and Ashkelon beaches have also reopened to the public.

In Jerusalem, key historical and religious sites central to the Christian, Jewish, and Muslim faith traditions are now accessible.

Reopened locations include the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Western Wall, and the Temple Mount, alongside major institutional venues such as the Israel Museum, Yad Vashem, the Tower of David Museum, the Bible Lands Museum, the City of David, and the National Library of Israel.

Concurrently, Tel Aviv’s cultural sector has resumed operations, led by the reopening of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, the ANU Museum of the Jewish People, and the Eretz Israel Museum, which is currently hosting the third edition of the Tel Aviv Biennale of Crafts and Design 2026.

International air connectivity has significantly improved with flight resumptions by global carriers including Lufthansa, Swiss Airlines, Wizz Air, Eurowings, Belavia, Blue Bird Airways, SCAT Airlines, Smartwings, Hainan Airlines, Georgian Airways, HiSky Europe, Qanot Sharq Airlines, and Azimuth Airlines. These operators join Etihad Airways and Ethiopian Airlines, which restored their flight schedules to Israel during earlier phases.

Israel Ministry of Tourism–Philippines Marketing Manager Anna Oraiza Aban said the return of commercial flights and site operations directly accommodates the specific travel preferences of the local market.

“Israel has always held a special place in the hearts of Filipino travelers, particularly for pilgrimage and faith-based journeys,” Aban said.

“With the gradual reopening of our tourism sites and the return of international flights, we are excited to once again welcome Filipinos to experience Israel’s rich heritage, spiritual significance, and diverse attractions in a safe and meaningful way.”

The Ministry advised prospective travelers to review updated safety guidelines and booking conditions prior to departure, noting that advance reservations remain mandatory at select high-traffic destinations under current visitor management protocols. (PNA)