ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Israel reopens cultural venues after successful vaccination campaign

cultural-heritage · 2026-04-27

As of February 25, 2021, Israel has resumed operations at cultural venues following a vaccination initiative, with a total of 5,334,950 individuals vaccinated (57% having received the first dose and 53% fully vaccinated). Access is restricted to those holding a digital 'green passport.' Indoor gatherings are capped at 75% capacity (up to 1,000 attendees for venues with fewer than 5,000 seats) and 40% for larger spaces. For outdoor events, the limit is also 75% (up to 3,000 attendees) and 30% for bigger venues. Standing events must observe two-meter distancing and a 50% capacity restriction, with masks required. Museums have specific space regulations, and tickets need to be bought beforehand, with guided tours limited to 20 participants. The government intends to allow vaccinated foreign tourists this summer. Maya Katzir expressed worries about the future significance of culture.

Key facts

  • Israel reopened cultural venues on February 25, 2021.
  • 5,334,950 people vaccinated; 57% first dose, 53% both doses.
  • Only vaccinated individuals can enter cultural venues via green passport.
  • Indoor seated events: 75% capacity up to 1,000 (venues ≤5,000 seats); 40% up to 4,000 (venues >5,000 seats).
  • Outdoor seated events: 75% up to 3,000 (venues ≤10,000 capacity); 30% up to 10,000 (venues >10,000).
  • Standing events: 50% capacity, max 300 indoors, 750 outdoors; 2-meter distancing required.
  • Museum capacity: 7 sqm/person for small museums (<3,000 sqm); 15 sqm/person for larger ones.
  • Government plans to reopen to vaccinated foreign tourist groups in summer 2021.

Entities

Institutions

  • Cultural Office of the Israeli Embassy
  • Tel Aviv Museum of Art

Locations

  • Israel

Sources