The story of Expo Tel Aviv began in the early 20th century, with a group of entrepreneurs and visionaries who believed in the power of an exhibition
to serve as a showcase for innovation, entrepreneurship and the evolving Israeli spirit.
Over the years, this modest initiative has evolved into a vibrant and groundbreaking complex, that connects businesses, culture and community and continues to push the boundaries of imagination.
Today, Expo Tel Aviv hosts hundreds of conventions, exhibitions and events and welcomes over two million visitors each year.
In a world where everything changes rapidly, Expo Tel Aviv continues to innovate and lead. With smart infrastructure, advanced construction and trailblazing projects,
the center has reshaped the event and convention experience in Israel and established itself as a powerhouse of innovation, culture and international creation.
The “Flying Camel”’s first appearance in skies of the Levant
Expo’s original name was the “Levant Fair”, and its symbol was the “Flying Camel”, designed by Arie Elhanany. The camel represented the connection between east and west, while its wings symbolized the outburst of innovation, initiative and progress.
1932
The “Levant Fair” proves successful and moves to its new home at the mouth of the Yarkon River.
The Fair leaves its old home in the east of the city to the new fairgrounds in Tel Aviv's far north. The move was celebrated with a grand opening, attended by High Commissioner Arthur Wauchope and the mayor at the time, Meir Dizengoff.
Poster design: Shamir Brothers
1934
The “50 years of Tel Aviv” jubilee exhibition.
Years after the Levant Fair had ceased its operations following riots at home and wars abroad, it resumed operations in the summer of 1959 at its new home on Rokach Boulevard, where it has remained to this very day. The venue was called the "Exhibition Grounds". At the initiative of mayor Haim Levanon, the new complex was inaugurated with the "50 Years of Tel Aviv" jubilee exhibition.
Poster design: Dan Reisinger
1959
The tradition of the Tel Aviv fairs was revived with various exhibitions
Design of the poster: Dan Riesinger
1962
The opening of the Luna Park next to the Exhibition Center.
Photographer: Joseph Lior
1970
Opening of the first Drive-In cinema in Israel
The Drive-In cinema was opened east of the Exhibition Grounds. A huge screen was placed on a massive lot that could accommodate up to 96 cars simultaneously, with speakers throughout that broadcast the movie soundtrack in a metallic sound inside the cars.
Photo: Ilya Bur
1973
The Congress Building was inaugurated
The inauguration of the “Congress Building” for hosting hundreds of exhibitions, fairs and events of all types.
1983
Construction of Pavilion 1, the first of its kind in Israel
The launch of Pavilion 1, spanning an area of 20,000 sqm, and considered the largest in Israel for years, until the construction of Pavilion 2.
2003
Completion of the renovation of the “Congress Building”, currently known as “Pavilion 10”. The pavilion hosts conventions, exhibitions and events of up to 2,000 people, and boasts a fenced outdoor grounds for gatherings and receptions.
2011
The launch of Pavilion 2, the most impressive convention complex in Israel
The launch of Pavilion 2, the most impressive and complex pavilion ever built in Israel, with an investment of approximately NIS 350 million. The smart and versatile space can accommodate exhibitions, conventions and events for up to 9,000 people.
2015
From the Exhibition Center to Expo Tel Aviv
The Exhibition Center has been re-branded, changed its name to “Expo Tel Aviv” and establishing itself as an international exhibition, convention and event center with a new vision.
2018
Expo Tel Aviv hosting Eurovision 2019
Expo Tel Aviv hosting Eurovision 2019, beyond doubt the largest, most exciting and most challenging event held at Expo Tel Aviv and the City of Tel Aviv in 2019.
2019
The launch of the “Expo Business” meeting room complex
"Expo Business" - a complex of conference rooms and a business lounge.
The venue, designed meticulously to an advanced standard, is intended for business meetings, board meetings, staff training, launches, press conferences and more.
2021
Expo Tel Aviv looking ahead
Expo Tel Aviv continues to push forward and initiate new projects to leverage the complex and create experiences and generate economic traffic. New pavilions and halls are being inaugurated on-site (such as the BLACK BOX pavilion and the “Expo Theater”), alongside the launch of ventures and collaborations from the worlds of culture and leisure.
2024
Expo Tel Aviv celebrating 100 years of creation
May 2026 - Expo Tel Aviv’s 100th anniversary celebrations in the presence of the Mayor of Tel Aviv Yafo.
2026
