How many Ethiopian-Israelis live in Eilat?

The Ethiopian-Israeli community in Eilat numbers approximately ~1,500 residents — around ~3% of the city's population. Main neighbourhoods: מרכז, צפון אילת.

What community support is available in Eilat for this right?

In Eilat, the following organisations can assist with paperwork, translation and entitlement: ENP.

Home / Rights & Programs / Community Mortgage — 600,000 ILS for Ethiopian-Israelis

Community Mortgage — 600,000 ILS for Ethiopian-Israelis in Eilat

Govt loan for Ethiopian-Israeli families: ₪600,000 over 25 years, 0% interest for the first 10, 2% for the next 15. Allocated by annual lottery (~200 families).

Housing Mortgage Grants

About Eilat

Eilat, the southern port city on the Red Sea, hosts a small Israeli-Ethiopian community with a presence in the hospitality and services sectors. Eilat's real-estate market is unique in its VAT exemption on property purchases, attracting investors and buyers from across the country.

More about the city →

Who is eligible?

Any household where at least one criterion holds:

One of the spouses was born in Ethiopia
One of the spouses' parents was born in Ethiopia
The couple is defined as "Falash Mura" with confirmed aliyah

Loan terms

Amount: ₪600,000
Term: 25 years
Rate: 0% for the first 10 years, 2% for the next 15
Down payment: 5% of property value
Registration: ₪70 at a participating bank branch (annual lottery)

How to apply

Register at a participating bank branch (Leumi / Discount / Igud)
Wait for annual lottery results (~200 winners)
On winning, the bank sends approval to sign a purchase contract
Submit documents: ID, income proof, absorption-program confirmation (if relevant)

Quick eligibility check — mortgage calculator.

Share on WhatsApp

Ethiopian community in Eilat

Community population: ~1,500
Share of city: ~3%
Main neighbourhoods: מרכז, צפון אילת
Community services: ENP

More rights in Eilat

This right in other cities

FAQ — Eilat

How many Ethiopian-Israelis live in Eilat?: The Ethiopian-Israeli community in Eilat numbers approximately ~1,500 residents — around ~3% of the city's population. Main neighbourhoods: מרכז, צפון אילת.
How do I claim Community Mortgage — 600,000 ILS for Ethiopian-Israelis in Eilat?: Apply via the Government Housing Authority website or the local Ministry of Construction office in Eilat. For support: ENP.
What community support is available in Eilat for this right?: In Eilat, the following organisations can assist with paperwork, translation and entitlement: ENP.

Mortgage Guide for Ethiopian-Israelis 2026

Complete guide to all mortgage programs available to Ethiopian-Israelis: the 600K loan, Homot grant, 90% financing eligibility, and special interest tracks.

HousingMortgage

Military Discharge Benefits for Ethiopian-Israeli Veterans

Ethiopian-Israeli discharged soldiers are entitled to a discharge grant of up to 120,000 ILS, an education scholarship, mortgage points, and preference in civil service.

rights_tag_armyGrants

Free Mortgage Counselling — Guide for Those Entitled

The Ministry of Housing funds free mortgage counselling for housing benefit recipients. A certified adviser saves tens of thousands of ILS in interest.