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%.

Visa and passport information is updated regularly and is correct at the time of publishing. You should verify critical travel information independently with the relevant embassy before you travel.