181,000 Israeli Tourists in 9 Months: Austrian Embassy Hosted Business Leaders
At the festive meeting held in Tel Aviv, Nicholas Lutrotte, the Austrian Ambassador to Israel, and Marcus Haas, the commercial consul, reviewed the trade between the countries in the past year and highlighted the strong tourism to Austria this year as well.
Marcus Haas and Nicholas Lutrotte. Photo: PassportNews All Tourism News - on PassportNews' New WhatsApp Channel
The commercial department of the Austrian Embassy in Israel, ADVANTAGE AUSTRIA, headed by Marcus Haas, the commercial consul, hosted today (Wed) at its office in Tel Aviv a festive business meeting summarizing the year 2024 and looking forward to the new year. The meeting was attended by Nicholas Lutrotte, the Austrian Ambassador to Israel.
During the event, Marcus Haas reviewed the outstanding economic sectors of the past year between Austria and Israel, focusing on the export of goods which grew by 3.7% from January to September, mainly thanks to pharmaceuticals, machinery, and technological components, which continue to serve as a growth engine for economic cooperation between the countries. He even awarded a certificate of appreciation to one of the operating companies.
Photo: Roi AzulaiHaas also reviewed tourism to Austria, noting that despite a drop of about 33% from last year due to the war, it still showed high numbers with approximately 181,000 Israeli tourists and almost 600,000 overnight stays from January to September. He noted that Austria remains a popular destination among Israeli families due to its stunning landscapes, safe atmosphere, and quality culinary experiences.
Haas added that there is great optimism for the new year, with potential to deepen commercial and cultural ties between Israel and Austria and expand flight offerings with the return of Wizz Air to operate the Vienna route on January 15, the expected return of Austrian Airlines on February 1, and TUS Airways from Cyprus, which will resume daily flights starting summer 2025.
Haas concluded his remarks with a blessing for a good and successful year and continued joint efforts to strengthen business and tourist traffic to Austria.
Guests at the meeting also enjoyed traditional Austrian dishes served like schnitzel, strudel, and cheese alongside mulled wine, Christmas cookies, and more, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Photo: PassportNews
Photo: Roi Azulai 
Photo: Roi Azulai