Israel merges Old Acre and Nazareth development teams into the Government Tourism Company

This piece explains the recent decision by Israel’s government to merge two state tourism companies and to refocus another agency’s mission, and what those changes may mean for tourism infrastructure and local transfers.

What changed: a concise overview

The government has approved a reform to consolidate tourism development. The Old Acre and Nazareth Development Company will be integrated into the Government Tourism Company (HTC), making HTC the central executive arm responsible for tourism infrastructure, preservation and maintenance in these historic urban areas.

At the same time, the Dead Sea Protection Company (DSPC) will cease new tourism infrastructure development and shift to focus strictly on environmental protection tasks in the Dead Sea region. An inter-ministerial team will review ongoing DSPC projects to decide which should be completed under the new arrangement.

Why the government acted

• To reduce duplication of responsibility across multiple agencies.
• To centralize budgeting and project execution under one ministry-aligned body.
• To prioritize environmental protection where necessary, particularly around sensitive sites such as the Dead Sea.

At a glance: expected benefits

• Cost savings: Consolidation should reduce administrative overhead and free funds for active projects.
• Clear accountability: HTC becomes the single point of execution for many heritage and city-site projects.
• Environmental focus: DSPC’s narrower mandate aims to better protect fragile ecosystems.

How this affects tourism infrastructure and visitors

Centralizing development can speed decision-making for restoration and public works in Acre and Nazareth, two destinations with substantial heritage value. Faster, coordinated upgrades to walkways, signage, parking and visitor amenities will shape how tourists move through these cities—and how transfer services plan pick-up and drop-off points.

Operational and commercial outcomes for taxi and transfer providers

When a single agency oversees infrastructure, private operators and local taxi companies gain clearer information on where to locate stands, how fares might be affected by new access rules, and when construction projects will influence traffic. Drivers and dispatch services can plan exact routes and timing more reliably, and apps can update pick-up coordinates with confidence.

Practical considerations for travelers

• Expect updated drop-off points at heritage sites; check arrival instructions in advance.
• Private transfers may be routed to centralized parking or shuttle hubs where pedestrian access is prioritized.
• Environmental restrictions near the Dead Sea could mean longer walking segments from car parks to key viewpoints; book a transfer that offers convenient seating and luggage handling.

What local operators should have a mind to do

Taxi and private transfer companies should monitor HTC announcements and the inter-ministerial team’s decisions on DSPC projects. Preparing flexible vehicle allocations—such as offering both small sedans for quick city hops and 6–8 seater vans for group transfers—will help meet shifting demand. Clear communication about exact pick-up locations, fare transparency and driver credentials will build trust with visitors adjusting to new site layouts.

The move is unlikely to dramatically alter the global tourism map, but it is relevant regionally: streamlined project management can improve visitor experience in Acre and Nazareth and protect the Dead Sea’s environment. For your next trip, consider the convenience and reliability of LocalsRide. Book your Ride LocalsRide.com

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In summary, folding the Old Acre and Nazareth development teams into the Government Tourism Company and refocusing DSPC on protection is intended to streamline projects, improve accountability, and safeguard sensitive landscapes. For travelers and transfer services, the changes promise clearer pick-up points, more reliable timing and better information on fares and vehicle options. Whether you need a taxi, an airport transfer, a private seater, or a limousine for a special occasion, plan ahead: check the exact location details, prices and driver’s credentials so you know how much time to allow and what seat to expect. LocalsRide.com supports this approach by offering transparent listings—make, model, driver ratings and clear fares—helping you get the best service for your destination, city transfers, or airport runs.