Israel expects 3 lakh Indian tourists annually in next 3-4 years | Latest News India - Hindustan Times
close_game
close_game

Israel expects 3 lakh Indian tourists annually in next 3-4 years

Kolkata | ByIndo Asian News Service
Aug 29, 2018 08:01 PM IST

Israel, which is expecting about 90,000 Indian tourists in 2018, is hopeful of attracting at least 3 lakh Indian visitors annually in the next three-four years

Israel, which is expecting about 90,000 Indian tourists in 2018, is hopeful of attracting at least 3 lakh Indian visitors annually in the next three-four years by improving the air-connectivity between the two countries, an Israeli official said here on Wednesday.

People stand at an observation point overlooking the Dome of the Rock and Jerusalem’s Old City.(Reuters File Photo)
People stand at an observation point overlooking the Dome of the Rock and Jerusalem’s Old City.(Reuters File Photo)

“Around 60,000 Indian tourists visited Israel in 2017 and we are expecting around 90,000 Indian tourists in 2018. I think within 3-4 years, we should reach at least the 3 lakh figure,” Ministry of Tourism Director (India and Philippines), Hassan Madah said here on the sidelines of a roadshow.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

In 2017, the country attracted 3 million international tourists, mostly from the US, Russia and western European countries.

“Tourism is on the rise in Israel and inbound arrivals from India have appreciably increased in the last few years. With a half-yearly record growth of 82 per cent as compared to the same period in 2015, more than 44,000 Indian tourists have already visited the country from January to July, 2018,” Madah said.

In March 2018, Air India launched its direct flight operations from New Delhi to Tel Aviv, the fastest non-stop flight connecting India with Israel, he said, adding that the airline is increasing flights in the route.

In addition to this, Israeli airline El Al currently has three weekly non-stop flights from Mumbai to Tel Aviv.

Israeli carrier Arkia has also expressed interest to begin operations connecting the two countries, he said.

Madah said the opening of the Kolkata Israel Visa Application Centre for West Bengal and northeastern states would help increase interest among travellers from these regions of India.

The country is fast becoming the Middle-East’s newest business tourism destination, gaining popularity with the Indian corporate segment, he added.

Unveiling 'Elections 2024: The Big Picture', a fresh segment in HT's talk show 'The Interview with Kumkum Chadha', where leaders across the political spectrum discuss the upcoming general elections. Watch now!

Get Current Updates on India News, Lok Sabha Election 2024 LIVE along with Latest News and Top Headlines from India and around the world.
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Share this article
SHARE
Story Saved
Live Score
OPEN APP
Saved Articles
Following
My Reads
Sign out
New Delhi 0C
Tuesday, March 19, 2024
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
Follow Us On