While the Israeli tourism industry continues to face challenges, two flagship hotels in Jerusalem prove that excellence and world-class service speak a universal language. Waldorf Astoria and American Colony won prestigious awards at the World Travel Awards ceremony in Dubai, the international organization regarded as the "Oscars of the travel world."
Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem won the title of “Israel’s Leading Hotel for 2025” for the second consecutive year, marking the third time in the hotel’s history that it has received this prestigious award, following previous wins in 2022 and 2024. At the same time, the American Colony Hotel was chosen as Israel’s Leading Boutique Hotel—for the ninth time for the historic property, which first won the title in 2013.
The World Travel Awards, celebrating 32 years this year, is considered the premier global benchmark for recognizing excellence in the tourism and hospitality industry. Winners are chosen annually by professionals and consumers from more than 160 countries, with over 650,000 votes from around the world.
Waldorf Astoria: “Leading Even in Challenging Times”
Avner On, CEO of Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem, commented on the win: “This is a tremendous pride for Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem, the entire chain, our hotel staff, and Jerusalem itself. This consecutive win proves that it is possible to lead the tourism sector in Israel even in challenging times, while maintaining an international standard of service and hospitality.”
According to On, “We invest significant resources to provide guests with an unforgettable experience, from cuisine to the smallest details. We will continue to act with a mission to represent Israel and Jerusalem with pride on the international stage.”
The hotel, built on the foundations of the historic Palace Hotel, is considered one of the largest hotel projects in the country, with an investment of approximately $150 million. The hotel has 226 rooms, including 29 luxury suites, a grand ballroom, gourmet restaurants, a luxury spa, and uncompromising service standards.
American Colony: Nine Times on the Podium
The American Colony Hotel, the 160-year-old Ottoman gem, won the title of Best Boutique Hotel in Israel for the ninth time. The hotel first won the award in 2013, and subsequently in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021.
Alex Nasser, the hotel’s CEO, stated: “We are very proud that American Colony was chosen as Israel’s Outstanding Boutique Hotel for 2025, and for the trust and appreciation expressed by the World Travel Awards. Over the past year, the hotel underwent a comprehensive renovation to enhance the guest experience. I promise that we will continue to maintain the high level of service, atmosphere, and the uniquely special hospitality experience of the hotel.”
Built in 1860 and originally serving as the palace of the local Pasha, the hotel features Arabic arches, colorful wooden ceilings, oriental rugs, and antique furniture. Over the past year, the hotel underwent a comprehensive renovation of all four floors of the main building, upgrading 41 rooms and adding balconies to some of the rooms.
The charm of the place has made it a favorite among statesmen, ambassadors, journalists, and cultural figures, including Sting, Richard Gere, Bob Dylan, Robert De Niro, Natalie Portman, Winston Churchill, Jimmy Carter, and Mikhail Gorbachev.