Tel Aviv Launches NIS 25 Million Expansion of Anis Cultural Center in Jaffa
Tel Aviv is launching a NIS 25 million expansion of the Anis Cultural Center in Jaffa, starting September 2026. The project includes a new auditorium, rooftop terrace, and café to combat crime through culture.
The Tel Aviv-Yafo Municipality is launching a comprehensive NIS 25 million renewal and expansion project for the Anis Cultural Center, located in the heart of the Jaffa D neighborhood. Construction work is scheduled to begin in September 2026 and will last approximately 12 months.
Committed to maintaining cultural continuity, the center will continue offering its programming to residents from alternative locations at the Mandel Center and the Music Center throughout the renovation period. The future project will combine the renovation of the existing structure with new construction. The works include building a new auditorium featuring retractable seating, designed for theatrical performances, dance shows, and various events.
In addition, a unique rooftop terrace will be constructed to serve as an open-air space for film screenings and community activities. A new café will also operate at the center, remaining open to the public even when the cultural center itself is closed. Furthermore, the main lobby will be expanded, new workshop and dressing rooms will be added, and advanced safety infrastructure will be implemented.
Advocate Amir Badran, Deputy Mayor of Tel Aviv-Yafo, addressed the municipal rationale behind the initiative:
«Jaffa, like many cities across the country, suffers from rampant crime. A central response to violence is further investment in education, sport, and culture. The renovation and strengthening of the Anis Cultural Center stems from a belief in this path, and we will remain committed to investing in areas that will make our streets safer.»
Currently, Anis serves as a welcoming home for repertory theater and cinema, screening festival films, Israeli cinema, and movies from the Arab world, among others. The current project is part of a broader municipal effort that has invested approximately NIS 340 million in recent years to renew community institutions in Jaffa.
Among the prominent projects are the establishment of the community country club at Beit Cherner, the Beit Barkat Center, and the renovation of the Beit Rakea and Lev Jaffa centers, aimed at empowering the community and improving the quality of life in the city.
