Kibbutz Neot Semadar in Israel’s southern Arava was named Friday to the Best Tourism Villages list of the United Nations’ tourism agency, UN Tourism, recognizing it as one of 250 leading rural destinations worldwide for sustainable tourism, cultural preservation and innovation.
The announcement was made during a ceremony in China. The annual list highlights villages that demonstrate excellence in sustainable tourism and contribute to preserving local heritage and the environment.
Founded in 1989, Neot Semadar is home to about 250 residents, including kibbutz members, families, children and volunteers from Israel and abroad. The community is known for its ecological and cooperative lifestyle, as well as its distinctive desert architecture and local craftsmanship.
In a joint statement, Israel’s Tourism Ministry and the Hevel Eilot Regional Council said the kibbutz “serves as a unique model of an ecological cooperative community and offers a distinctive tourist experience.” Among its attractions are a desert art center built over 15 years by kibbutz members, an organic boutique winery, a local inn, desert-style guest rooms, artist workshops, stargazing near the Weizmann Institute’s survey telescope, and guided tours through the surrounding desert landscapes.
UN Tourism said Neot Semadar was chosen from more than 270 nominations from 65 countries, citing the kibbutz’s “cultural and natural richness and its commitment to sustainability across ecological, social and economic dimensions.”
The kibbutz secretariat said the recognition marks a milestone in its development. “Over the past decade, Neot Semadar has undergone a true transformation in tourism,” the statement said. “We are proud to share our unique culture, cuisine and architecture with visitors from Israel and abroad, and we hope this international recognition will further strengthen tourism in the Arava and across Israel.”
Dr. Hanan Ginat, head of the Hevel Eilot–Southern Arava Regional Council, called the announcement “an emotional moment and a source of pride for the entire southern Arava.” He said the recognition reflects “the local community’s vision and effort, highlighting the values of sustainability, innovation and cooperation that we promote daily.”
The Tourism Ministry said it initiated and supported the kibbutz’s nomination as part of its broader effort to promote unique Israeli communities internationally. The ministry worked with the regional council to prepare materials and coordinate with the competition’s judging committee.
“This achievement benefits both the kibbutz and the wider region,” the ministry said, “and strengthens Israel’s image as a diverse and sustainable tourism destination.”
Neot Semadar is the second Israeli village to be included on UN Tourism’s prestigious list. Kfar Kama, a Circassian village in the Lower Galilee, was recognized in 2022.
Tourism Minister Haim Katz congratulated the kibbutz, saying it “represents the best of the Israeli spirit — combining innovation, sustainability and community.” He added, “This honor reflects international recognition of Israel’s uniqueness and the quality of our sustainable tourism. We will continue to strengthen Israel’s standing as a leading global destination.”
According to the Tourism Ministry, the Best Tourism Villages initiative is one of the most prestigious in the global travel industry. Villages selected for the program gain international exposure and join a worldwide network of rural destinations that attract tourists and policymakers. About 250 villages worldwide currently hold the recognition.