Ariel is the largest city in the area of Samaria. Ariel was founded in 1978, with the approval of the Israeli government. At that time, approximately 40 families, led by Ron Nachman, took up residence on top of the rocky and barren hill. Living conditions were harsh at first, but the location was considered strategically important and those who moved there knew that Israel needed an outpost and eventually a thriving community there. It is unlikely that they could have imagined, back in those early days, just how successful they would be.
Very soon after the settlement was established, they picked the name Ariel, a Biblical reference to Jerusalem and the Temple Mount. It was, coincidentally, the name of a man who had supported Ariel’s establishment and constantly spoke of its strategic and economic importance. That man, Ariel, Sharon, would later become Prime Minister and sadly turn his back on the city he often praised as a key requirement for Israel’s security.
In 1985, Ariel elected its first mayor: Ron Nachman, who has dedicated decades towards seeing Ariel develop and grow. Today, Ariel is home to more than 20,000 residents. It is the second largest city in Judea and Shomron (after Maaleh Adumim, which has almost 35,000 residents). By 2002, Ariel’s College of Judea & Samaria enrollment passed 7,000.
Thousands of new immigrants, from the four corners of the world, have chosen to build their homes in Ariel and have been successfully integrated into the community. Today, over 45 % of Ariel’s population are immigrants from the former Soviet Union. Many special programs and projects, from Hebrew Ulpan classes to rent controlled housing for senior citizens, have been established to let the newcomers know they are wanted and welcome in Ariel
On Ariel’s western border stands a large, modern industrial area with over 110 diversified industries. An additional industrial park, “Ariel West” is currently being developed on 200 acres of land.
At Ariel’s eastern limits, adjacent to the College of Judea & Samaria, is the Center for Technological Initiative. This center, specializing in such fields as biotechnology, medicine, electronics and biochemistry, houses some 30 projects in various stages of research and development.
The first venture-capital-backed technological incubator in Israel was established in Ariel, Known as Incentive, it adopted a new Pilot program launched by the Israel Ministry of Industry and Trade in May 2002.
Among the tourist attractions in Ariel are:
The Eshel Hashomron Hotel stands at the entrance to Ariel. It is a luxurious hotel, featuring 100 guest rooms, a large outdoor pool, and a sparkling waterfalls.
The Academic College of Judea and Samaria was founded in Ariel in 1982 and was recognized as a full university, one of very few in Israel, in 2006.