Goa and Israel Strengthen Dialogue as Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte Meets IMOT Delegation; Direct Tel Aviv–Goa Air Connectivity Discussed

Panaji, December 2025: The Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT) recently held a constructive meeting with Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, marking a meaningful step toward strengthening cooperation between the two destinations.

During the meeting held in Panaji, the IMOT delegation — comprising Galit Hoffman, Consul – Tourism Affairs for India, and Amruta Bangera, Director of Marketing, IMOT India — conveyed Israel’s interest in exploring a direct air link between Goa and Tel Aviv. The proposal was discussed as an opportunity to improve accessibility and support the steadily growing travel demand between India and Israel.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte acknowledged Goa’s strong positioning within India’s tourism landscape and reiterated the state’s support for strengthening its international connectivity. He also expressed his willingness to facilitate the process should an airline proceed with evaluating the route, including assistance with operational requirements.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte said, “Goa welcomes every opportunity to strengthen its global tourism partnerships. A direct connection with Tel Aviv holds strong potential to enhance two-way travel, and we are committed to extending all possible support to airlines evaluating the Goa–Tel Aviv route.

The delegates also discussed the possibility of hosting a roadshow in Goa to spotlight Israel’s tourism offerings and mobilising key travel trade partners.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides aligned on strengthening ties and continuing conversations on enhancing direct connectivity. Expressing appreciation for the Minister’s proactive stance, Galit Hoffman, Consul – Tourism Affairs for India, IMOT, said, “Goa has long held a special place for Israeli travellers, and strengthening connectivity will only deepen this relationship. We are optimistic about the potential of a direct Goa–Tel Aviv flight and look forward to continued collaboration with the Government of Goa to take this dialogue forward. We truly appreciate the support extended by Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte.”

Known for its beaches, culture, and warm hospitality, Goa has long been a preferred destination for Israeli travellers to India. Each year, around 50,000 Israelis visit India, with a significant proportion choosing Goa — underscoring the deep cultural connection and strong traveller affinity between the two destinations.

On the outbound front, Israel continues to attract Indian travellers with its rich history, spirituality, natural landscapes, adventure offerings, and culinary diversity, with Goa emerging as one of the key source markets. From January to November 2025 alone, Israel recorded 1.18 million international tourist arrivals and is expected to close the year at approximately 1.3 million. India remains the leading source market from Asia and is among Israel’s top ten inbound markets globally.

Enhanced air connectivity is expected to improve accessibility and open new pathways for collaboration between the two destinations.