Israel has started welcoming individual tourists for the first time since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, AP reports.

Authorities hope that opening the country’s gates to solo travellers will breathe new life into the struggling tourism industry. Before the pandemic, the Christmas season saw hundreds of thousands of people visit Bethlehem, believed to be the birthplace of Jesus, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

Travellers must show proof of vaccination, a booster shot or recovery from the coronavirus within the last six months. Authorities recognise most vaccines, but those vaccinated with Russia’s Sputnik must undergo a serological test upon arrival. Travellers must also present a negative coronavirus test before boarding their flights and take another one upon arrival.