What is MEJDI Tours?
MEJDI Tours is all about creating a more peaceful world by sparking compassion, understanding, and meaningful connections across cultures. Founded back in 2009 by two close friends—Scott Cooper, a Jewish American, and Aziz Abu Sarah, a Palestinian from Jerusalem—MEJDI was born from a shared vision: using the power of travel to bring people closer and build bridges where walls once stood. It’s not just any travel company; it’s a movement toward peace through exploration.
The Main Benefit of MEJDI Tours
What really sets MEJDI apart? Their unique approach to storytelling and cultural immersion. Here’s a quick snapshot:
- Founded in 2009 by Scott Cooper and Aziz Abu Sarah
- Dual Narrative Tour launched 15 years ago, co-led by Palestinian and Israeli guides
- Socially Conscious Tours offered in 40 destinations across 5 continents
- Industry-first Dual & Multi-Narrative Tours featuring two local guides with distinct cultural, religious, political, and ethnic perspectives
- Private custom tours for organizations and small groups, plus scheduled tours open to the public
- Built in partnership with local communities for deep cultural, historical, and current event exploration
Dual Narrative Tours: A Groundbreaking Approach
MEJDI’s Dual Narrative Tours are truly a game-changer. Imagine traveling with two local guides—each sharing their own unique story, perspective, and background. Originally launched in Israel and Palestine, this tour pairs one Palestinian guide with one Israeli guide, offering travelers a rare, balanced insight into a complex region. This approach has been so impactful and popular that it’s now a socially conscious option in many other MEJDI destinations worldwide. It’s not just a tour; it’s a conversation, a connection, a chance to see the world through multiple lenses.
Expanding Horizons: Tours Across Continents
Since that first Dual Narrative Tour, MEJDI has expanded its socially conscious travel philosophy to 40 destinations on 5 continents. From Egypt to Turkey, Kurdistan to Spain, and even Ireland, MEJDI’s tours invite travelers to dive deep into the culture, history, and current realities of each place. These aren’t your typical sightseeing trips—they’re immersive experiences designed to foster understanding and respect, all while supporting local communities.
Custom and Community-Based Travel Experiences
MEJDI Tours offers more than just scheduled trips. They provide private custom tours tailored for organizations and small groups, making it easy for like-minded travelers to connect and explore together. Each tour is built in partnership with local communities, ensuring that the experience is authentic, respectful, and beneficial to those who call these places home. It’s travel with a purpose—where every step taken supports peacebuilding and responsible tourism.
MEJDI Tours and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – promoting peacebuilding through travel
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – collaborating with local communities and guides
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – supporting local economies via tourism
- SDG 4: Quality Education – educating travelers about diverse narratives and histories
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – encouraging sustainable and purposeful travel
Why MEJDI Tours Matters in Today’s World
In a world often divided by politics and prejudice, MEJDI Tours offers a refreshing alternative—travel that connects rather than divides. By bringing together voices from different sides and encouraging open dialogue, MEJDI helps travelers see beyond stereotypes and headlines. It’s about more than just visiting places; it’s about understanding people, building empathy, and contributing to a more peaceful future. Whether exploring Israel and Palestine or venturing to other culturally rich destinations, MEJDI’s tours remind us that travel can be a powerful tool for change.
