ARAD
A Rising Hub in Israel's Negev
At the crossroads of the Negev and Judean Deserts, Arad is building a future that welcomes more families to Israel's South. Through Blueprint Negev, Jewish National Fund-USA is investing in education, culture, recreation, and economic opportunity to make the city a place where families can thrive.
Open-air pavilion in Arad.
A City Growing Toward 2030
Arad is working toward a population of 40,000 by 2030, with 700 new homes in development and investments in tourism, education, and public spaces. The city's growth supports a larger vision: a thriving Negev that offers families an alternative to Israel's crowded center, with opportunities to work, learn, and build community close to the desert landscapes they call home.
Arad Piano Festival. Photograph by Yoel Levy.
Opening Doors Through Music
Arad's Institute of Musical Excellence provides more than 400 children with music education, private lessons, and performance opportunities. A renovated facility, scholarships, and an instrument fund help make music accessible to children while enriching the wider community.
Arad Park, Central Garden.
A Gathering Place for Arad
In the heart of Arad, eight-acre Yehoshafet Park brings residents together for recreation, culture, and citywide celebrations. Walking and biking trails, playgrounds, gardens, fitness facilities, and outdoor art connect community life with the natural beauty of the surrounding cliffs.
Desert Edge Promenade
The planned Desert Edge Promenade will connect neighborhoods with accessible paths, hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, gardens, and a floating porch overlooking Masada. Designed to strengthen desert tourism and culture, it will help attract visitors and new residents while supporting Arad's hotel industry.
Funding Opportunities
| Program | Giving Level |
|---|---|
| Promenade Dedication Naming opportunity for the Desert Edge Promenade. | $1,000,000 |
| Floating Porch Support the promenade's floating porch overlooking Masada. | $500,000 |
| Lookout (3) Support a lookout along the Desert Edge Promenade. | $200,000 |
| Tomarkin Trail Support the Tomarkin Trail within the promenade project. | $150,000 |
| Desert Garden Support a desert garden within the promenade project. | $100,000 |
| Entrance Support an entrance to the promenade. | $50,000 |
| Music Conservatory Instrument Fund Provide instruments for the Music Conservatory. | $25,000 |
| Music Scholarship Support one student for one year. | $5,000 |
* All opportunities are subject to availability.
Help Build Arad's Future
Help make Arad a place where more families can build their future. Your gift can support spaces for connection, opportunities for young musicians, and the city's next chapter of growth.
For other giving levels and donation opportunities, contact Eric Goldstein at egoldstein.Cinci@jnf.org.