Urban Renewal Projects Grow Larger and More Populated as Leading Israeli Firms Expand
The urban renewal sector in Israel is experiencing significant growth, with projects increasing in size and occupancy rates surging, according to the 2026 Duns 100 ranking revealed at the Urban Leaders event. The ranking, conducted for the eighth year by Dun & Bradstreet, evaluates leading development companies not only by the volume of projects but also by their maturity and ability to advance plans to actual construction and occupancy.
Doron Cohen, CEO of Dun & Bradstreet Israel, emphasized the historical and national importance of urban renewal, highlighting its role in addressing housing demand, improving building quality, and enhancing security through reinforced shelters. Despite challenges such as regulatory uncertainty, financing costs, and labor shortages, the sector continues to thrive and contribute to Israel’s housing market.
Data from the ranking, reflecting project statuses at the end of 2025, show a 9% increase in reported projects and a sharper 22% rise in housing units within those projects, indicating a shift toward larger developments. The share of evacuation and reconstruction (pinui-binui) projects rose to 47%, overtaking building reinforcement projects, which declined to 53%. Importantly, projects in advanced stages (planning permits, construction, or occupancy) grew by 14%, with housing units in these stages up 27%, signaling improved project maturity.
The most notable jump was in occupancy, with a 33% increase in completed projects and a 62% surge in housing units delivered to residents. This trend underscores the sector’s growing ability to convert plans into tangible housing solutions. The ranking categorizes companies into quality groups, with top urban renewal firms including Ofek Holdings, Anshei Ha’ir, and Aco City, while leading pinui-binui developers include Aura, Azorim, and Israel Canada Ram Holdings.
Tel Aviv remains the primary hub for urban renewal, led by Anshei Ha’ir, followed by Aco City and others. Activity is also expanding in Jerusalem, Haifa, Holon, Netanya, and Herzliya, with some cities like Bat Yam seeing fewer projects but larger developments. Despite the complex environment, business risk levels and payment ethics among ranked companies remain stable. The ranking also highlights top tenant supervision firms and law offices specializing in urban renewal, reflecting the sector’s maturation and increasing professionalism.
