Hotel occupancy in Haifa: The data is encouraging, but is it specifically related to tourism?

(live here in tourism) – The Central Bureau of Statistics recently published hotel occupancy data for the years 2023-2024, which shows that the war that has been going on in Israel since October 2023, XNUMX, has had a significant impact on the industry. As a result of the fighting, many residents were forced to evacuate their homes and were accommodated in hotels across the country, which led to a significant increase in hotel occupancy.

Haifa in second place in the country – December 2024

According to the report, in December 2024 there was a decrease in hotel room occupancy across the country, which stood at 54%. In the distribution of data by city, Haifa is in second place with 66% occupancy, while Eilat leads with 70%. In the Dead Sea region, occupancy was 57%. Compared to December 2022, on the eve of the "Iron Swords" war, there was a general decrease in occupancy - 58% compared to 54% today. At that time, Haifa, which stood at 52.6% occupancy, was far from Eilat (65.9%) and the Dead Sea (59.7%), while Jerusalem presented 59.1%.

They began to recover from the coronavirus and then

The "Iron Swords" war caused significant changes in hotel operations across the country. Some hotels were forced to cease their normal operations due to their location in combat zones, while others opened their doors to accommodate evacuees. The routine, which began to stabilize in 2022 after the severe impact of the Corona years (2020-2021), was hit again. In 2024, there was a 13% decrease in the total number of hotel nights compared to 2023. Most of the decrease was due to the severe impact on tourist nights, which decreased by 76% compared to the previous year. On the other hand, Israeli nights, including evacuees, increased by 12% compared to 2022.

2023 Before and After the War

In 2023, there was significant volatility in hotel room occupancy in Haifa, with the "Iron Swords" War significantly affecting the figures. At the beginning of the year, occupancy rates were moderate: January opened with 40%, February recorded 48.7%, and March 52.2%. In April and May, there was a gradual increase to 58.5% and 66.1% respectively, but the numbers remained far from peaks. In June, there was a decrease to 56.4%, while in August - the peak of the summer season - the figure was 65.5%. With the outbreak of war in November 2023, room occupancy jumped to 86.9%, and remained high in the following months, until it stabilized in September 2024.

Decrease in evacuee overnight stays

According to data from the Central Bureau of Statistics, in November 2023, approximately 83% of overnight stays by Israeli citizens in hotels were by evacuees. Over time, this rate gradually decreased, and in May 2024—the last month examined so far—the rate of overnight stays by evacuees was only 36%. According to the Central Bureau of Statistics, it is difficult to accurately determine the extent of overnight stays by evacuees, but the data indicate a continuous downward trend since the beginning of reports.

With the decrease in the number of evacuees staying in hotels, it is hoped that in 2025 occupancy will return to the levels recorded in 2022. In July 2022, hotel room occupancy in Haifa was about 74%, and in August about 70%. In 2024, the figures are similar – 71% in July and 70% in August – but a significant portion of the overnight stays were for evacuees, which may reflect a partial picture of the true tourism situation.
It is possible that the ceasefire agreements will allow the industry to recover, will lead to the return of tourists from abroad and will also encourage Israelis to go on vacations in the country, and of course in Haifa.

the summer months

The data analysis indicates a consistent pattern of an increase in hotel room occupancy in Haifa during the summer months – July and August, coinciding with the summer holidays. In the winter months, on the other hand, a significant decrease in occupancy is recorded. The notable exception to this trend occurred in the period after the outbreak of the war, when room occupancy in the city was particularly high due to the absorption of evacuees. With the return of evacuees to their homes or their move to permanent housing, hotel occupancy also returned to the usual levels typical of this period each year.

Why Haifa?

Haifa is a destination rich in diverse attractions, combining spectacular views, fascinating history and a vibrant culinary scene. One of the city's most prominent sites is the Baha'i Gardens, which extend over the slopes of Mount Carmel and are considered one of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites. At their foot is The German Colony, a historic neighborhood with a unique European atmosphere, where restaurants, cafes and restored Templar buildings.

The lower city Offers a youthful entertainment experience, with bars, art galleries, a vibrant food market and colorful, lively streets. Nature lovers can enjoy walks along The beaches of Haifa, with a beautiful promenade and well-maintained beaches, or go up toCarmel Observatory, offering panoramic views of the bay.

Not far from there, Talpiot Market The historic town is gradually becoming a thriving culinary hub with fresh produce and boutique restaurants. A short drive south, Caesarea National Park Exposes visitors to the magnificent truth of the ancient Roman city, with an ancient port, a restored theater and spectacular mosaics.

Haifa is also home to leading cultural institutions, including Haifa Museum of Art, which presents contemporary exhibitions, andMadatech - the National Museum of Science, Technology and Space, which offers an interactive experience for the whole family. In addition, the city can be found religious and historical sites, such as Stella Maris Church Catholic and Church Elijah the prophet.

With an extraordinary combination of history, nature, culture and cuisine, Haifa offers a rich and diverse experience suitable for every visitor.