Kibbutz Ketura is named after Abraham’s wife (who married after Sarah’s death). The collective kibbutz is located in the southern Arava about 50 km from Eilat. The kibbutz was established as a holding in November 1973 by a group of young immigrants from the United States, graduates of the Young Judaea youth movement.
Kibbutz Ketura residents have about 300 members and some 140 children. The residents of Ketura are engaged in agriculture, technology, renewable energy and tourism.
The kibbutz has one of the largest date plants in the region, which grows Majhul dates. The Algatech plant produces algae in tubes that are used in medicine and cosmetics. The kibbutz has a large solar field cleaned by robots, the first of its kind in the Middle East.
The kibbutz advocates a pluralistic approach that upholds the tradition of Israel. The kibbutz keeps Shabbat in the public sphere and yet most of its members are secular.
The Kibbutz Ketura Guest House is just 30 minutes from Eilat and close to sightseeing and attractions. There are 44 rooms suitable for couples, families and groups. Each unit has a kitchenette with a coffee / tea, a fridge, cable TV and a courtyard with a seating area. There is a large swimming pool, spacious lobby with free internet, coffee shop and kibbutz artists’ gallery. To complete the hospitality experience, meals are served in the communal dining room together with the locals for a hands-on experience of community life.
Photos: Kibbutz Ketura