Overseas Directors Conference 2026: A Week of Learning, Connection, and Strategic Insights. January 25-29, 2026 | Tel Aviv and Jerusalem

Approximately 50 participants from 17 countries — directors of Israel's Ministry of Tourism overseas offices, their teams, and representatives of the offices' PR agencies — participated last week in a professional conference in Israel, which culminated in a celebratory meeting at the President's Residence.

During the conference, participants were exposed to daily life and tourism activity in Israel, met with incoming tour operators, and attended professional lectures on branding Israel and the challenges facing international tourism during this complex period, in accordance with the policy of Minister of Tourism Haim Katz.

The Ministry of Tourism's strategy focuses on renewing Israel's brand positioning on the international stage, expanding strategic partnerships with leading platforms, and implementing advanced AI-based digital tools to improve work processes and marketing.

Director General of the Ministry of Tourism, Michael Izhakov, stated: "We are proud of our outstanding representatives. The direct encounter with the field, with industry partners, and with Israeli reality as it is, is a significant tool for building trust, understanding Israel's true story, and leading the process of renewing tourism to Israel on the global stage."

The conference opened at the Dan Panorama Hotel in Tel Aviv with opening remarks by Director General Michael Izhakov and Deputy Director General for Marketing Yoash Ben Izhak. Participants attended professional lectures on marketing, branding, and public relations from leading industry experts, and met with representatives of leading aviation companies.

Participants took part in a comprehensive session on the work processes of the International Marketing Division, as well as presentations by representatives of the Israel Nature and Parks Authority. The conference also included a comprehensive tour of Tel Aviv, featuring introductions to key tourism sites and new products in the city.

Additionally, in-depth tours were conducted in Jerusalem, including visits to the City of David, the Western Wall Tunnels, and the Friends of Zion Museum. professional strategic sessions were also held during the conference with heads of departments at the Ministry of Tourism. The conference included a personal meeting with Director General of the Ministry of Tourism Michael Izhakov, followed by a special tour of the Israel Museum.

The conference concluded with a celebratory meeting with the President of Israel at the President's Residence — a moving and meaningful moment that capped a week of connection, learning, and collaboration.

The 2026 Overseas Directors Conference provided Israel's representatives worldwide with advanced professional tools and an in-depth understanding of Israeli tourism products. The conference strengthened the partnership between the overseas offices and the Ministry, and provided participants with strategic insights that will help promote Israel as a leading tourism destination globally.

Credit pic: Ronen Horesh
Credit pic: Shlomi Amsalem