15 Facts About Israel Most People Get Wrong
Israel is home to 9.6M people across 22,145 km², making it more densely populated than most of its neighbours. It ranks 1st in the world for Nobel per Capita.
Below are 15 facts about Israel, covering history, geography, economy and culture, including several that regularly surprise people who think they already know the country.
15 Facts About Israel
A complete overview of Israel's history, geography, economy and culture, covering everything from population and borders to language, climate and travel.
Israel has more museums per capita than any other country.
Israel is the only country that has more trees now than it did 50 years ago.
The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth at 430m below sea level.
Israel has won more Nobel Prizes per capita than any country except Switzerland.
Israel is located in Middle East, Asia, with its capital city in Jerusalem.
The population of Israel is approximately 9.6M, spread across 22,145 km² of territory.
Israel has a population density of 434/km²: one of the more densely populated countries in the region.
Israel has a coastline of 273 km, giving it access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism.
Israel shares land borders with 4 countries: Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Egypt.
The official languages of Israel are Hebrew / Arabic.
Israel uses the Shekel (ILS) as its official currency.
Israel gained independence in 1948, establishing itself as a sovereign nation in Middle East.
The total GDP of Israel is $488B, with a GDP per capita of $50,900, classifying it as a high-income economy.
Israel has a mediterranean coast, desert south climate, with the best time to visit being March–May, September–November.
Israel is considered a Expensive destination for travellers, with meals averaging $10–18.
Israel is nicknamed 'Start-Up Nation' and has more companies listed on NASDAQ than any country outside North America. It invented drip irrigation, the USB flash drive, the Iron Dome missile defence system, and the cherry tomato.
🏆 Israel World Rankings
Israel holds several notable world rankings; here is how it compares globally:
Famous Places in Israel
Israel is home to several remarkable landmarks and destinations that draw visitors from around the world:
🕍 Old City of Jerusalem
A UNESCO city sacred to three major religions with the Western Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre and Al-Aqsa Mosque
🏰 Masada
A UNESCO mountaintop fortress where Jewish rebels made their last stand against Rome in 73 CE
🌊 Dead Sea
The world's lowest point and saltiest large body of water, you float effortlessly without swimming
🌸 Baha'i Gardens, Haifa
UNESCO terraced gardens descending Mount Carmel, considered the most beautiful in Asia
Frequently Asked Questions About Israel
What is Israel famous for?
Israel is nicknamed 'Start-Up Nation' and has more companies listed on NASDAQ than any country outside North America. It invented drip irrigation, the USB flash drive, the Iron Dome missile defence system, and the cherry tomato.
What is the capital of Israel?
The capital of Israel is Jerusalem.
What is the population of Israel?
Israel has a population of approximately 9.6M as of 2026.
What language do they speak in Israel?
The official languages of Israel are Hebrew / Arabic.
When did Israel become an independent country?
Israel gained independence in 1948.
What currency does Israel use?
Israel uses the Shekel (ILS).
What is the GDP of Israel?
Israel has a GDP of $488B, with a GDP per capita of $50,900.
Where is Israel located?
Israel is located in Middle East, Asia.
Is Israel safe to visit?
Safety conditions in Israel vary by region. Always check your government's official travel advisory before visiting.
What are some fun facts about Israel?
Israel has more museums per capita than any other country. Israel is the only country that has more trees now than it did 50 years ago. The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth at 430m below sea level.
What are some interesting facts about Israel?
Israel is the only country that has more trees now than it did 50 years ago. The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth at 430m below sea level. Israel has won more Nobel Prizes per capita than any country except Switzerland.
Israel facts: what should I know?
Israel is a country in Middle East with a population of 9.6M. Its capital is Jerusalem and its official language is Hebrew / Arabic. Israel has more museums per capita than any other country.
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