Cinema Ticket Prices in Israel Quietly Surpass 50 Shekels Amid Summer Season

As the summer vacation begins, cinema ticket prices in Israel have quietly risen above 50 shekels, according to a recent investigation by mako. Major cinema chains such as Cinema City and Planet have increased their prices, especially for tickets purchased online. For example, a regular ticket at Cinema City costs 49.90 shekels at the box office but 54.90 shekels online, while Planet charges 49 shekels at the counter and 53.50 shekels on its website. This online price difference, labeled as an internet booking fee, effectively means consumers pay more for the convenience of online purchases.

This price hike has occurred gradually over the past year without much public attention. Last September, Cinema City raised its online ticket price from 49.90 shekels to the current 54.90 shekels, while Planet also saw a steady increase. For families, the cost is significant: a family of four buying tickets online pays approximately 220 shekels at Cinema City and 214 shekels at Planet, excluding snacks and parking.

Both chains justify the online booking fees as necessary to cover website maintenance and payment processing costs, despite the reduced need for box office staff. Efforts to abolish these fees through legislation have not succeeded so far. To mitigate the impact of rising prices, both chains offer various promotions through credit card companies and consumer clubs. For instance, a common 1+1 ticket deal is available via Isracard and American Express, with Cinema City also including Max cards and Planet offering exclusives for Cal and Diners Club cardholders.

Discounts are also available for seniors, disabled individuals, youth, and soldiers, with ticket prices around 33 shekels at the box office or about 38 shekels online. Cinema City offers a special 25-shekel price for seniors watching Israeli films. Additionally, each chain runs unique promotions: Cinema City’s "Cinema Kids" project offers children’s movies at 20 shekels, while Planet launched a prepaid family subscription granting eight children’s tickets for 248 shekels.

Consumer clubs provide further savings, especially at Planet and its subsidiary Rav Chen, with prices starting at 24 shekels per ticket and deep discounts on premium experiences. Cinema City stated that ticket prices have remained stable for years except for a recent inflation adjustment, and the online booking fee has not changed. Planet cited rising operational costs as the reason for price adjustments but emphasized ongoing efforts to offer affordable options for families during the summer.