Israel to host major LGBT festival at Dead Sea

Israel is preparing to host the Middle East's largest LGBT festival to date, named 'Pride Land,' at the Dead Sea from June 1-4, 2026. The event will transform the Judean Desert into a 'Pride city' featuring 15 hotels, beach facilities, and a central arena for round-the-clock parties and shows. Notably, the festival is being officially marketed by the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs as an international showcase for openness and a liberal lifestyle, despite the country being governed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing religious coalition.