What's Happening?
Jerusalem has been recognized as the seventh-best city in the world in the 2026 World's Best Awards by U.S. travel magazine Travel + Leisure. This accolade comes as a significant boost to Israel's tourism industry, which is still recovering from the impacts
of recent conflicts. The rankings, based on over 661,000 reader votes, also positioned Jerusalem as the top city in Africa and the Middle East, surpassing other renowned destinations in the region. This marks a notable improvement from the previous year when Jerusalem was ranked third in the regional category. The World's Best Awards, now in its 31st year, is a highly influential survey in the travel industry, evaluating cities on criteria such as landmarks, culture, cuisine, hospitality, shopping, and value for money.
Why It's Important?
The recognition of Jerusalem as a top global city is crucial for Israel's tourism sector, which has been struggling to regain its pre-conflict visitor numbers. In 2025, Israel saw about 1.3 million international visitors, a rise from the previous year but still significantly lower than the 3 million in 2023 and the record 4.5 million in 2019. This accolade could help attract more tourists, boosting the local economy and supporting businesses reliant on tourism. The increased visibility and prestige associated with such a ranking can enhance Jerusalem's appeal as a travel destination, potentially leading to increased international interest and investment in the region.
What's Next?
As Jerusalem gains recognition on the global stage, the Israeli tourism industry may see a renewed focus on marketing and infrastructure development to accommodate and attract more visitors. The government and local businesses might invest in enhancing tourist experiences and services to capitalize on this momentum. Additionally, there could be increased collaboration with international travel agencies to promote Jerusalem as a must-visit destination. The tourism ministry may also implement strategies to sustain and build upon this recognition, aiming to restore and surpass pre-conflict tourism levels.
