The David Kempinski Hotel, located in the heart of Tel Aviv, has secured the 11th spot on Condé Nast Traveler’s latest ranking of the 20 premier hotels in the Middle East, marking it as the top-rated property in Israel.
Condé Nast Traveler magazine released the findings of its 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards on Oct. 6, awarding the David Kempinski a score of 95.02 to place it 11th among regional competitors.
This improved standing follows feedback from approximately 800,000 global travelers, moving the hotel up four positions compared to its ranking last year.
This achievement occurs while foreign tourism to Israel remains below previous levels. According to the Central Bureau of Statistics, Israel saw 788,500 international arrivals between January and September 2026, representing a 15% decline from the 927,800 visitors recorded during the same period in 2025.
The Readers’ Choice Awards from Condé Nast Traveler are considered highly influential within the travel sector. The rankings are derived from the assessments of roughly 800,000 travelers worldwide, who evaluated properties based on their service, location, design, amenities, dining, and overall hospitality.
“The fact that the hotel has moved up four spots compared to last year – just five years after its opening – attests to the team’s ongoing commitment to providing a hospitality experience of the highest caliber,” said Guy Kelman, general manager of the David Kempinski.
The Norman Hotel, also in Tel Aviv, follows closely in the regional top 12, securing the 12th position with a score of 94.48.
“We are proud to experiences for our guests that reflect Tel Aviv’s unique character.”
The majority of the hotels featured on the list are situated in the Gulf states, specifically within Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar. The top honor went to the Dorchester Luxury Travel Advisor and a spot on that publication’s list of the 14 best breakfasts globally.
“A luxurious, impeccable, and service-oriented experience unlike any other in Tel Aviv. The views from the rooms are breathtaking, the service is unobtrusive, and the food is top-notch,” a review said in Condé Nast Traveler magazine.
Founded 125 years ago, Kempinski Hotels is the oldest luxury hotel group in Europe, operating 80 properties globally. The Tel Aviv location serves as its first establishment in Israel.
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