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Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem returns Israel to global luxury rankings

Six Israeli hotels appear on a prestigious 2026 list after a two-year absence from international hospitality standings.

The Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem
The Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem, 2026. Photo by Amit Geron.

The Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem has been included in the 2026 recommendations of Forbes Travel Guide, marking Israel’s return to a major international luxury hospitality ranking after a two-year absence.

The guide, whose rankings are determined by anonymous inspectors evaluating hundreds of service and facility criteria, also listed five other Israeli hotels: Two others in Jerusalem, The David Citadel Hotel and Mamilla Hotel; two in Tel Aviv, The Norman and The Setai, and The Ritz‑Carlton Herzliya.

Avner On, CEO of the Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem, said the recognition signals recovery in Israel’s tourism and hospitality sector.

“We are proud to continue to lead the international hospitality experience in Israel,” he said, expressing hope that the industry will continue strengthening. “The return to this prestigious list places Israel back on the tourism map.”

Built on the site of Jerusalem’s historic Palace Hotel at a reported cost of about $150 million, the Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem includes 226 rooms, 29 suites, a ballroom, conference facilities, restaurants, spa and fitness center.

The hotel has previously received multiple honors, including being named Israel’s top hotel in 2022, 2024 and 2025 by the World Travel Awards and ranking among the top five hotels in Africa and the Middle East in 2023.

The Second JNS International Policy Summit is scheduled to take place at the Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem on April 15-17.

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