The Israel Ministry of Tourism launched Operation “Roaring Lion,” which in turn kicked off emergency procedures to assist tourists currently in Israel who wish to return home, according to an official ministry statement.
The ministry is operating the Virtual Tourist Office around the clock to provide information and direct assistance through email and WhatsApp.
The ministry is running shuttle services from central pickup points in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv to the Taba border crossing to expedite departures. The Israel Airports Authority has confirmed that four land border crossings remain operational with specific hours: Taba Border Crossing to Egypt operates 24/7, Rabin Crossing to Jordan runs from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Allenby Crossing to Jordan operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Jordan River/Sheikh Hussein Crossing to Jordan is open from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., with arrivals required no later than 4:30 p.m. Operating hours may change based on staffing conditions and decisions by relevant parties.
The ministry noted that tourist groups operate under the full responsibility of the Destination Management Company that receives and manages them in the country. The DMC assumes exclusive responsibility for all logistical and operational decisions, including selecting the appropriate border crossing when traveling to neighboring destinations such as Jordan or Egypt.
Emergency Measures: By Land and by Sea
Celestyal Cruises has canceled four March 2026 departures on Celestyal Journey due to the geopolitical situation in the region, according to a company emergency statement dated March 4, 2026. The canceled sailings include March 7 and 14 departures from Doha, Qatar, and March 9 and 16 departures from Dubai, UAE. Guests booked on the canceled sailings will receive either a full refund or a future cruise credit.
“We continue to follow developments in the Middle East and remain in regular contact with the relevant authorities. Throughout this period, our focus has been and continues to be the safety and wellbeing of our guests and crew,” the cruise line shared in a press statement.
With the cancellation of the remaining scheduled sailings, Celestyal’s Arabian Gulf season will conclude. Subject to operational conditions, Celestyal Journey and sister ship Celestyal Discovery will reposition to Athens to begin their scheduled Mediterranean program.
The Israel Ministry of Tourism is also coordinating with hotels across the country to facilitate accommodation for displaced individuals, working in cooperation with industry partners and authorities. The ministry emphasized that its foremost commitment is to the safety, security and well-being of tourists staying in Israel.
Meanwhile, tour groups are typically accompanied by tour leaders and designated points of contact who maintain coordination with agents and partners across borders to ensure smooth transitions and continuity of services, according to the ministry statement.
For more information, visit celestyal.com or email [email protected] (WhatsApp at +972 53 583 5808).
