TECH & AI: Empowering the Cities of Tomorrow. 35th International Mayors Conference. American Jewish Congress, State of Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs, American Council for World Jewry.

Travel information and helpful tips

What to prepare before you fly, what to expect when you land, and practical notes for your stay in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

Dates
November 8 to 12, 2026
Hotels
King David Hotel, Jerusalem
Jaffa Hotel, Tel Aviv
Arrival airport
Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV)

Entry and documents

Apply for your ETA-IL before you travel

Travelers from visa exempt countries must hold an approved Electronic Travel Authorization for Israel (ETA-IL) to enter the country. Please apply at least 72 hours before departure.

Apply for ETA-IL

Use only the official Israel Population and Immigration Authority site linked here.

  • Visa requirements vary by nationality. If your country is not visa exempt, please let us know right away and apply through the nearest Israeli embassy or consulate.
  • An approved ETA-IL is valid for up to two years, or until your passport expires. If you have renewed your passport, you must apply again.
  • If you travel on a diplomatic or official passport, please check with us before applying, as different rules may apply.
  • At passport control you may receive a small blue entry card instead of a passport stamp. Keep it with your passport throughout your stay.
  • Carry printed copies of your flight itinerary, hotel confirmation and invitation letter in case border control or hotel staff ask for them.
  • Keep your passport with you at all times. Security is thorough, and you will need it to enter official meetings.

Arrival and contacts

  • When you land at Ben Gurion International Airport, our VIP airport service will meet you and take you directly to the King David Hotel in Jerusalem.
  • Conference representatives will be on hand to help with arrival procedures and any immediate needs.
  • If your flight is delayed or your plans change, please let us know as soon as possible.

For travel changes or any questions before and during the conference:

Akri Cipa

Phone/WhatsApp +1 917 891 1140

Assaf Weiss

Phone/WhatsApp +972 54 588 3144

Phones, money and power

  • Wi-Fi is available at both hotels and at most conference venues.
  • The local currency is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS). Credit cards are widely accepted.
  • ATMs are easy to find in hotels and city centers. The concierge can point you to the nearest one.
  • Israel uses 230V power with Type C and Type H sockets. Bring a plug adapter if your devices use a different plug.

Weather

  • Jerusalem: days around 19 to 22°C (66 to 72°F), nights around 11 to 13°C (52 to 55°F). The city sits in the hills, so evenings are noticeably cooler.
  • Tel Aviv: days around 24 to 26°C (75 to 79°F), nights around 14 to 16°C (57 to 61°F), with mild evenings by the sea.
  • November is the start of the rainy season, so occasional showers are possible. A light jacket and a small umbrella are useful, especially in Jerusalem.
  • These are typical averages for early to mid November. Please check the forecast a few days before you travel.

Cultural notes

  • The Israeli work week runs Sunday through Thursday, and many businesses are open Friday mornings. The weekend is Friday afternoon and Saturday (Shabbat).
  • During Shabbat, many government offices and businesses close, and public transportation is limited.
  • English is widely spoken, and a few words of Hebrew are always appreciated: Shalom (hello, peace) and Toda (thank you).