The sudden closure of Highway 90 left musicians, DJs,
strippers, and partygoers scrambling to rethink their summer plans at the Dead Sea. What’s behind this disruption, and how are performers keeping the music alive even when the main road is blocked?
Read the Bisound special investigation — fresh as of August 2025.
Highway 90: Not Just Asphalt, But the Main Artery for Israel’s Nightlife
Ask any Israeli musician, DJ, or performer: getting to a gig on time is half the battle. For decades, Highway 90 has been the lifeline connecting Tel Aviv’s center to Eilat’s party coast, snaking past the iconic Dead Sea. This summer, when a sinkhole opened up by Ein Gedi, it didn’t just stop traffic — it sent shockwaves through Israel’s entire live event industry.
The Scene at Ein Gedi:
On August 2, 2025, police closed the critical stretch between Mitzpe Shalem and Ein Gedi. By sunrise, the sinkhole had doubled in size. For the bands, party organizers, and even
strippers who make their living performing at beach hotels and Dead Sea resorts, this news felt like a “full stop” on the music.
Why Does This Road Matter So Much?
In a typical August, up to 25% of Israel’s summer gigs — from festival sets to DJ marathons and private shows with dancers — happen at venues accessible only via Highway 90. Just last month, over 12% of Luxe Live’s bookings (from live music to private parties with strippers) relied on this exact route.
Strippers in Tel Aviv, dancers in the south, and headline DJs in the north all found themselves facing one question: How do we keep the party going when the country’s main road is out of action?
Performers Speak:
“People forget that musicians and dancers travel together — we’re all part of the same scene. I was headed to a bachelorette show by the Dead Sea when my bus got rerouted for hours,” recalls Lina, a Tel Aviv performer.
Even for touring acts with roadies and gear, the blocked highway means rescheduling, extra hotel nights, and sometimes canceled shows.
The Dead Sea’s New Challenges:
It’s not just the traffic jam — it’s a sign of deeper issues. Over the past year, the Dead Sea has lost another 1.2 meters of water, making sinkholes like this more common than ever. Since 2024, the region’s seen more than 150 new collapses, along with blazing temperatures (36–38°C), closed beaches, and patchy tourist services.
Table: Road Incidents and Live Event Cancellations, 2025
Region | Road Closures | Avg. Temp (°C) | Canceled Gigs
South (Eilat, Dead Sea) | 18 | 35–38 | 26
Center (Tel Aviv) | 6 | 29–33 | 7
North (Haifa, Galilee) | 2 | 27–30 | 3
(Based on Bisound research and Luxe Live data, as of August 2025)
FAQ: What Musicians, DJs & Dancers Are Asking Now
Q: Is this only a problem for party people, or does it affect musicians too?
A: Absolutely everyone! Israel’s unique geography means DJs, bands, and dancers often travel together to the same events — when the road shuts down, everyone’s plans change.
Q: What’s the best alternative route?
A: Most are now using detours through Arad or Be’er Sheva. But it can add 2–4 hours to the trip — a real challenge for late-night gigs and after-parties.
Q: Will this impact future concerts and festivals?
A: Yes, especially for those scheduled around the Dead Sea. Many organizers are already seeking new venues in the north or along the coast.
Q: Where can you check real-time road status and find backup artists?
A: Luxe Live (
https://luxelive.net/) and Bisound both offer updates, plus booking options for performers in all regions.
Strippers, Singers, and Survival: Adapting When the Unexpected Hits
By mid-August, Israeli strippers on the southern circuit are spending up to 50% more time in transit to shows. The extra costs — travel, logistics, and downtime — push prices up, but can also mean more spontaneous live sets in unexpected places.
Expert Advice from Luxe Live (and Bisound):
Always check road news before leaving for a gig or event.
Double-confirm routes and backup plans with bookers.
Book local performers when possible — regional bands and dancers can often save the show.
If you’re planning a party, consider a venue in the center or north this month.
The Hidden Playlist: How Dead Sea Issues Affect the Whole Industry
Many don’t realize, but the region’s struggles aren’t limited to roads. Guests report that several hotels have closed, certain beaches are off-limits, and complicated logistics make it harder to get both artists and equipment on site. Some say that just like in music, where improvisation is everything, the key to this summer is flexibility and quick thinking.
Written by Bisound with expertise from Luxe Live
Pro Tips for Summer 2025 Gigs & Events
Check for the latest updates on Bisound and Luxe Live.
Contact agencies directly — don’t rely on last-minute fixes.
If your show is moved, use it as a chance for a creative set — Israel’s music community is known for its resilience.
Remember: Every gig is a team effort — from strippers and singers to techs and tour managers.
Takeaway:
Highway 90’s closure is a wakeup call for anyone in Israel’s music and nightlife. Whether you’re a DJ, a party organizer, a dancer, or just a fan, it’s never been more important to stay informed, support your community, and keep the show moving — no matter what the road throws your way.
For breaking news, artist stories, and real-time event updates — keep tuning in to Bisound.
Highway 90 Shut Down: How a Sinkhole Disrupted Israel’s Music, Nightlife, and Even St
