Religious tourism, deeply rooted in the history and culture of many countries, continues to play a crucial role in the economy and identity of the destinations that value it. Jerusalem, in particular, stands out as a major spiritual crossroads, attracting millions of pilgrims and tourists. As a sacred centre for Judaism, Christianity and Islam, the city offers a diversity of religious sites. However, recent conflicts, notably the Israel-Hamas war, have had a considerable impact on the religious tourism sector. Through this analysis, we will explore the impact of these crises on religious tourism in Jerusalem, assess the current state of the market, and consider the prospects for the future.
You can find the first two parts of this analysis of religious tourism in Saudi Arabia, Europe and India here.
Introduction and historical and religious context
- Jerusalem: a sacred place for the three great monotheistic religions
Jerusalem is a sacred site for the three great monotheistic religions. For Jews, the Wailing Wall is a central site of prayer and pilgrimage, while the Tunnels of the Wall and the City of David reveal ancient vestiges of their history. Christians venerate the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the site of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection, and walk the Via Dolorosa as well as important sites such as the Mount of Olives. For Muslims, the Dome of the Rock and the al-Aqsa Mosque on the Temple Mount are key sites, marking the beginning of the Prophet Muhammad's Night Journey (Tourist Israel).
The Share of Religious Tourism
- The Historical and Economic Importance of Religious Tourism
The "Holy Land" holds immeasurable importance for believers worldwide, having served as a pilgrimage destination for over 2,000 years. This profound spiritual significance has, in the modern era, given rise to a thriving tourism industry. In 2019, this sector generated an estimated $8.46 billion for Israel and $1 billion for Palestine. (The Conversation)
- Visitor Profile
In Israel, 73% of visitors are Free Independent Travelers (FITs), traveling independently, while 27% participate in organized tours. The majority of these tourists come to visit the sightseeing locations, with 19% specifically traveling for pilgrimages. The average daily cost in Israel amounts to $100, and the average stay lasts for 10 nights. Nearly 45% of visitors are repeat tourists, highlighting the enduring appeal of the destination.
- Managing the Crowds
Like many popular religious destinations, the massive influx of pilgrims presents significant challenges to the preservation of its sacred sites. The Old City...
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