Historic Haifa Casino Building Set for Major Hotel Transformation
Haifa officials finally signed off on turning the old Bat Galim Casino into a hotel after the building sat empty since the 1960s. Dor Chemicals owns the 1930s structure and wants to build 110 rooms, add a spa, and put in restaurants. The building sits right on the water – part of it was actually built over the Mediterranean.
They’re bringing back the swimming pool that got demolished years ago and opening up beach access that’s been private property. The casino used to be the heart of Bat Galim during British rule and early statehood, drawing people from all over for parties and events.
The city’s been trying to grab tourists from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Hotels here run cheaper than the big cities, with less crowds and better access to northern attractions like Akko, Nazareth, and the Galilee.
Economic Impact on Neighborhood
The hotel should create hundreds of construction jobs and permanent positions once it opens. Local businesses expect more foot traffic from hotel guests and beach visitors.
The value of properties in Bat Galim has already begun to rise as the news spread about the approval. Restaurant owners and shopkeepers are making expansions to accommodate the projected numbers.
Casino tourism is still a popular attraction in the global market and a large number of tourists are seeking such experiences. Although casinos such as this ancient one emphasize hospitality services, online platforms reviewed and ranked by gaming enthusiasts demonstrate that the demand in casino entertainment remains high, particularly among Australian tourists who are likely to visit Israel. These platforms showcase everything from pokies and live dealer games to crypto payments and bonus offers, reflecting the Australian market’s strong appetite for gaming experiences that could translate into interest for destination casino hotels like the renovated Bat Galim property.
Building Details
Construction starts early next year if permits are clear. The hotel should open in 2027. Maybe longer; these projects always run over. Government money helped make this happen. The tourism ministry allocated funds for hotel projects last year. That brought 483 new rooms online. More coming in 2025.
Architect Dorit Shpint designed the renovation. She’s keeping the original look while meeting today’s building codes. Seven stories total. The foundation goes into the sea. That was considered engineering genius in 1935 when they built it. Alfred Goldenberg designed both this casino and the nearby refineries.
Underground parking will serve hotel guests and beach visitors. The project opens 0.6 acres of shoreline for public use.
Tourism Numbers
In 2024, hotel bookings were at $1.35 billion. Industry projections indicate that the growth will continue up to 2029. Those projections are, however, relying on stability and further government expenditure.
Haifa residents remember when the casino mattered. Concerts, social gatherings, big events. Many see this hotel as bringing back that community role. The project joins several waterfront developments. Haifa’s trying to dump its industrial image and compete for tourist money. This casino restoration might be the biggest symbol of that change.
Work begins once final paperwork clears. After 60 years empty, the casino will finally have life again.
