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Shopping in Eilat

As a free trade zone, Eilat has long been a key shopping destination for Israelis and international shoppers. With no VAT on anything sold, it means that shopping in Eilat is 17% cheaper than anywhere else in Israel. It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs that range from Dead Sea products to local produce.

Key areas

King Solomon's Promenade is the go-to area.

Markets

The North Promenade has a small marketplace with stalls selling an eclectic mix of items from beachwear to trinkets. Every Friday, farmers from the desert also sell local produce at Hatmarim Boulevard.

Shopping centres

Mall Hayam (Ha-Palmakh 1), Big Eilat (Ha-Satat 20) and ICE Mall (Kampen St 8) are popular choices.

Opening hours

Most shops open Sunday to Thursday 0900-1900. Shops tend to close at around 1300 from Friday afternoon and reopen on Sunday morning due to Sabbath.

Souvenirs

Dead Sea products – various salt scrubs and mud packs – are popular purchases. Other options include food stuff such as dates and cheeses, as well as Judaica – traditional Jewish ceremonial art. Israeli wine also makes a great gift.

Tax information

Eilat is a free trade zone, meaning you don't pay Value Added Tax (VAT) at a current rate of 17%.

A digital image at https://illuminoto.com

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Royal Beach

This 364-room luxurious resort enjoys an exclusive spot overlooking the Red Sea. Facilities include three swimming pools, two saunas and a spa offering more than 70 body, health and beauty treatments. The dining options and nightly entertainment are superb too. Reserving a suite gives you access to the VIP lounge by the pool.

Isrotel Riviera Club

A relaxed 3-star hotel with all the touches of comfort. Reasonably-priced self-catering apartments with kitchenettes are the biggest draw, though studios are also available. The location is ideal, as the beach is only two minutes' walk away.

C Hotel

Right in the heart of Eilat amid a myriad of cafés and shops, this friendly hotel has 153 rooms in various sizes and offers good-value facilities such as two pools, a kid’s club and a wet sauna.

Comfort Hotel

This budget hotel is well-equipped with a swimming pool and a spa centre offering services from reflexology to deep-tissue massage. It is also just around the corner from the Central Bus Station, giving you quick access to local and regional bus services.

Dan Eilat Hotel

A leading hotel brand in Israel, Dan lives up to its reputation by providing five-star service, facilities and setting in Eilat. All 375 rooms have sea views and each room features a painting by Israeli artist Natan Yosef. Checking into a suite provides you with access to the VIP lounge on the 14th floor, where you can enjoy free food and drinks with unbeatable views across Eilat.

Aviv Motel

Located about 2km (1.2 miles) from the Marina, this motel is clean, comfortable and affordable. Accommodation ranges from standard rooms to suites with a kitchen. Other facilities include a swimming pool and free WiFi.