Kibbutz Neot Semadar named amongst best tourism villages by UN Tourism

The Ministry of Tourism initiated and led the kibbutz’s nomination as part of a broader strategy to promote unique local communities on the global stage.

At an official ceremony held on October 17, 2025 in China, the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UN Tourism) announced the inclusion of the ecological, cooperative community Kibbutz Neot Semadar, located in Israel’s Southern Arava, in the prestigious Best Tourism Villages (BTV) network for 2025. The list honours rural destinations leading in sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and innovation. 

Israel’s minister of Tourism, Haim Katz said, “Congratulations to Kibbutz Neot Semadar, which represents the best of the Israeli spirit – combining innovation, sustainability, and community. We are proud to have promoted the kibbutz’s candidacy and its achievement of the prestigious Best Tourism Villages 2025 title. This recognition is another step in the Ministry of Tourism’s efforts within the framework of UN Tourism. It reflects the international acknowledgment of Israel’s uniqueness and its high-quality sustainable tourism. We will continue to position Israel as a desirable and responsible tourism destination.” 

The Ministry of Tourism initiated and led the kibbutz’s nomination as part of a broader strategy to promote unique local communities on the global stage. In collaboration with the Eilot Regional Council, the ministry provided professional guidance, assisted in preparing materials, and liaised with the international jury – recognising that such an achievement benefits both the local community and the regional and national tourism image of Israel. 

Dr. Hanan Ginat, Head of the Eilot Regional Council – Southern Arava said, “Neot Semadar’s inclusion in the UN Tourism Best Villages network is an emotional and proud moment for the entire Southern Arava region. It represents international recognition of the community’s vision and dedication, reflecting the values we promote every day – sustainability, innovation, and cooperation. Neot Semadar places the Southern Arava and Israel on the global tourism map, and we will continue developing distinctive desert tourism that attracts visitors from Israel and abroad.” 

Kibbutz Neot Semadar Secretariat added, “Over the past decade, Neot Semadar has undergone a true transformation in the field of tourism. Today we share our unique culture, cuisine, and architecture with visitors from Israel and around the world. This international recognition will serve as a springboard for further tourism development in the Arava and across Israel.”