Israel and Goa deepen their relationship; direct link between Tel Aviv and Goa is explored
A significant step towards enhancing collaboration between the two locations was taken recently when the Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT) met with Minister for Tourism Rohan A. Khaunte.
The IMOT delegation, which included Amruta Bangera, Director of Marketing, IMOT India, and Galit Hoffman, Consul for Tourism Affairs for India, expressed Israel’s interest in investigating a direct flight link between Goa and Tel Aviv during the conference in Panaji. The plan was viewed as a chance to increase accessibility and meet the constantly increasing demand for travel between Israel and India.
Khaunte reaffirmed the state’s support for enhancing Goa’s international connectivity while acknowledging the state’s strong position within India’s tourism industry. In addition, he stated that if an airline decides to move forward with assessing the route, he would be happy to help with operational needs.
“Goa welcomes every opportunity to strengthen its global tourism partnerships,” Khaunte said. We are dedicated to providing airlines assessing the Goa–Tel Aviv route with all assistance necessary, as a direct connection with Tel Aviv has significant potential to improve two-way travel.
To promote Israel’s tourism services and rally important travel trade partners, the delegates also talked about the potential for holding a roadshow in Goa. According to reports, the meeting ended well, with both parties in agreement to deepen relationships and carry on discussions about improving direct connectivity.
“Goa has long held a special place for Israeli travellers, and strengthening connectivity will only deepen this relationship,” Hoffman said, expressing gratitude for the Minister’s proactive approach. We are hopeful that a direct flight between Goa and Tel Aviv may be possible, and we look forward to working with the Goan government to forward this discussion. We sincerely appreciate the assistance that Hon. Rohan A. Khaunte, Minister of Tourism, has provided.
In 2025, Israel received 1.18 million foreign visitors between January and November, with an estimated 1.3 million expected to arrive by the end of the year. India is one of Israel’s top ten international incoming markets and is reportedly still the largest source market from Asia.
