This UAE airline focuses on attracting Israeli tourists and calls Jerusalem a city belonging to the Zionists

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Flydubai promotes Israel tourism. Photo/AP

DUBAI – Emirates airline Flydubai has come under fire for its travel guide, which refers to Palestinian cities as Israeli cities and promotes tourism in Israel.

In its travel guide on the airline’s website, Flydubai describes Israel as “one of the most dynamic countries in the Middle East”, listing cities to visit, top attractions and foods to try.

Flydubai also listed “the world-famous Old City of Jerusalem and the churches of Bethlehem” as “must-visit places” in the country, which was captured by Israel in 1967 after the Arab-Israeli war ended.

Jerusalem hosts the Al-Aqsa Mosque, which has been the target of a series of raids and blockades, and Israelis believe the complex is the holiest site in their religion and where two ancient temples are located.

According to New Arab, almost the entire international community rejects Israel’s annexation and claim of sovereignty over Jerusalem.

The airline said Tel Aviv is known as the “Manhattan of the Middle East” and “the city that never sleeps”.

Critics also point out that the guide associates “the authentic, fresh flavors of hummus, falafel, shakshuka, Msabbaha and couscous” with Israeli cuisine.

Israel faced backlash and ridicule for taking Palestinian cuisine and rebranding it as their own. The country has long labeled authentic Palestinian foods as Israeli, including “Israeli hummus”, “Israeli falafel”, “Israeli fattoush”, “Israeli shawarma” and “Israeli zaatar”.