Khaberni - The Israeli channel "I24News" noted that despite heightened Israeli security warnings since the attacks of October 7, 2023, many Israelis still choose Sinai as a summer destination instead of Eilat.
The Hebrew channel explained that despite those warnings, the Egyptian Sinai Peninsula has proven its resilience as an attractive tourist destination, where the enchanting nature of Egyptian land and its competitive economic costs outweigh the concerns of Israelis, who continue to flock to the Red Sea beaches in search of tranquility and prices that have become a distant dream in their local resorts.
The Hebrew channel reported that a weekend vacation in a budget hotel in Eilat costs an average of about 2800 shekels for a family, while a similar plan in Sinai costs only about 600 shekels.
The channel added that although the influx to the Egyptian peninsula has decreased significantly compared to the period before the war on Iran, those accustomed to the Red Sea shores continue to head there, attracted by the tranquility, natural scenery, and prices significantly lower than in Israel.
Moreover, the channel highlighted that at the Taba border crossing, the long waiting lines that were present in the past have disappeared, and local drivers who are accustomed to Israeli customers continue to welcome visitors as before, giving some vacationers a sense that the security warnings do not reflect the atmosphere on the ground.
It also pointed out that the economic argument also plays an important role; while a weekend stay in a budget hotel in Eilat costs an average of about 2800 shekels for a family including breakfast, a similar offer in Sinai costs only about 600 shekels, making the difference more apparent in mid-range hotels, about 7000 shekels in Eilat compared to about 1000 shekels in Sinai, and even luxury hotels remain more affordable, with an average cost of about 3000 shekels compared to about 10000 shekels at the Israeli resort.
Besides relaxation, the peninsula also attracts hiking enthusiasts, especially towards Mount St. Catherine, the highest point in Sinai and a favorite destination for hikers.
However, the channel clarified that the travel warning remains in force and continues to raise questions about security risks.
The report by the Hebrew channel pointed out that ironically, some Israelis in the area say they prefer it if the destination remains relatively secret, fearing that the return of large numbers of Israeli tourists could change the tranquil atmosphere that currently defines the charm of Sinai.
