Holy Land Incoming Tour Operators Association

The Holy Land Incoming Tour Operators Association (HLITOA) is a Palestinian registered non-profit organization established in 2000 to represent and strengthen the Palestinian inbound tourism sector. Recognized as the official representative body of Palestinian incoming tour operators, HLITOA works closely with the Palestinian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities to position Palestine as a distinctive cultural, historical, and religious destination in international markets.

HLITOA currently represents 40 licensed inbound tour operators, accounting for approximately 90% of the Palestinian inbound tourism industry, with nearly 80% of member companies headquartered in East Jerusalem. Membership is limited exclusively to operators specialized in inbound tourism, ensuring a strong focus on international visitor markets and destination development.

Beyond destination promotion, HLITOA plays a leading role in advancing sustainable and experiential tourism models that directly benefit Palestinian communities. The association actively promotes tourism experiences rooted in Palestinian culture, heritage, and daily life, with a particular emphasis on rural tourism initiatives. These include community-based tourism activities, homestay programs, cultural encounters, traditional food experiences, hiking trails, and village visits that allow international visitors to engage authentically with Palestinian society and traditions.

HLITOA also encourages the integration of locally made products into the tourism value chain by supporting the promotion and sale of Palestinian handicrafts, artisanal goods, traditional food products, and cultural souvenirs through local markets and souvenir shops. Through these efforts, the association contributes not only to increasing tourism arrivals, but also to generating inclusive economic opportunities for local communities, small businesses, women-led enterprises, and artisans across Palestine.