Netanyahu 'concerned Israelis will misbehave in UAE': report

The Israeli leader has reportedly backed the publication of a 'code of conduct' for Israeli visitors to the Gulf state.

2 min read

16 November, 2020

The UAE is preparing itself to welcome Israeli tourists [Getty]

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and members of his cabinet are reportedly concerned that Israeli tourists will misbehave while holidaying in the United Arab Emirates, according to a report on Sunday.

The Israeli leader has backed the publication of a "code of conduct" for Israeli visitors to the UAE, Israel's Kan public broadcaster reported.

The idea was initially floated by Tourism and Strategic Affairs Minister Orit Farkash-Hacohen, according to the Times of Israel. Farkash-Hacohen's team had drafted a team of "dos and don’ts", which Netanyahu described as "very important".

"I suggest that you really educate the Israelis," Netanyahu was quoted as saying. He reportedly objected, however, to the guide being called a "code of conduct".

The cabinet discussions come as several Emirati airlines prepare to begin regular flights to and from Israel.

Earlier this month, the UAE and Israeli ratified an agreement to exempt citizens from countries from the need to obtain pre-approved visas.

In September, the UAE became the third Arab country to normalise ties with Israel following Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994.

However, its move was quickly followed by Bahrain and Sudan.

The agreements, which have been roundly condemned by the Palestinians, break with years of Arab League policy on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The consensus had been that there should be no relations with Israel until it makes peace with the Palestinians.

Regional heavyweight Saudi Arabia has so far refrained from formalising relations with Israel, but has greenlighted UAE and Bahrain overflights, marking a sign of cooperation with Israel.

Agencies contributed to this report.

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