Jerusalem’s luxury hotels stole the show at the 2025 World Travel Awards in Dubai, with the Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem claiming Israel’s Leading Hotel title for another year. The American Colony Hotel grabbed the best boutique hotel award, while Tel Aviv’s David Kempinski held onto its spot as home to Israel’s top hotel suite, highlighting Israel’s strong tourism scene amid global challenges.
Award Winners Shine in Tough Times
The World Travel Awards, known as the Oscars of tourism, celebrate top spots in travel and hospitality each year. In 2025, votes from over 650,000 industry experts and travelers across 160 countries picked the winners.
Jerusalem stood out with two major wins. The Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem won Israel’s Leading Hotel for the second straight year, its third overall. This grand hotel, built on a historic site near the Old City, blends modern luxury with timeless charm.
The American Colony Hotel, a beloved spot in East Jerusalem, took home Israel’s Leading Boutique Hotel. Known for its cozy vibe and rich history, it draws guests seeking a unique stay.
Tel Aviv also celebrated. The David Kempinski Tel Aviv’s suite kept its crown as Israel’s Leading Hotel Suite. This beachfront gem offers stunning views and top service.
Other notable wins included the InterContinental David Tel Aviv as Israel’s Leading Conference Hotel and the Carlton Tel Aviv as the best for business. Eshet Tours stayed on top as Israel’s Leading Travel Agency.
These awards come at a key time for Israel’s tourism. Visitor numbers rose 15 percent in early 2025 compared to last year, despite regional tensions. Experts say strong hotel brands help boost the economy.
What Makes These Hotels Stand Out
Each winner brings something special to the table. The Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem features 226 rooms, including lavish suites with views of the city walls. Its atrium hosts events like the world’s largest indoor sukkah during holidays.
Guests rave about the fine dining and spa. One recent review called it a perfect mix of comfort and culture.
The American Colony Hotel offers a more intimate feel with 96 rooms. Its garden courtyard and historic ties to figures like Winston Churchill add appeal.
For suites, the David Kempinski in Tel Aviv boasts 250 rooms, with top suites including private pools and sea views. Opened in 2022, it quickly became a favorite for luxury seekers.
These spots invest in staff training and guest experiences. Managers say attention to details, like personalized welcomes, sets them apart.
Impact on Israel’s Tourism Growth
Winning these awards boosts visibility. Past winners see booking spikes of up to 20 percent, according to industry reports.
In 2025, Israel’s tourism ministry reported over 3 million visitors in the first half, up from 2.6 million in 2024. Hotels like these play a big role.
Challenges remain, such as security concerns. Yet, events like the awards show resilience. Local leaders hope this draws more international travelers.
Experts predict growth in luxury travel. A recent study showed Middle East tourism up 10 percent, with Israel gaining ground.
- Key Benefits for Travelers: Awards help pick reliable spots; winners often offer deals post-win; focus on safety and service eases worries.
Comparing Top Hotels in Israel
To help readers choose, here’s a quick look at the winners:
| Hotel Name | Award Won | Key Features | Location | Average Nightly Rate (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem | Israel’s Leading Hotel | Historic building, spa, fine dining | Jerusalem | 500-700 |
| American Colony Hotel | Israel’s Leading Boutique Hotel | Garden courtyard, historic charm | Jerusalem | 300-500 |
| David Kempinski Tel Aviv | Israel’s Leading Hotel Suite | Beachfront suites, infinity pool | Tel Aviv | 600-900 (for suite) |
This table shows why these hotels lead the pack. Rates vary by season, but they offer value through unique perks.
Travelers can book direct or through agencies like Eshet Tours for packages.
Looking Ahead to Global Competition
Regional winners now eye the world stage. The global awards happen in December 2025, where these hotels will face off against international giants.
Last year, Asian and European spots dominated, but Israel’s entries have climbed rankings. The Waldorf Astoria placed high in past globals.
Industry watchers say consistent wins build long-term appeal. For Israel, this means more jobs and revenue in tourism, which added over 10 billion dollars to the economy in 2024.
As travel rebounds worldwide, these awards remind us of Israel’s vibrant hotel scene. Share your thoughts on these winners or your favorite Israeli stays in the comments below, and pass this article along to fellow travelers planning their next trip.
