From agricultural colony to a global hub for diamonds and high-tech
In short: Once a communal farming settlement growing wheat and watermelons, Ramat Gan has transformed into a major metropolitan powerhouse. Today, it hosts one of the world's largest diamond exchanges and Israel's largest hospital, serving as a vital economic engine within the Gush Dan metropolitan area.
Established in 1921 as a moshava, or communal farming settlement, Ramat Gan began as a satellite town of Tel Aviv. Its early years were defined by agriculture, specifically the cultivation of barley, wheat, and watermelons. The settlement's identity was further solidified in 1923 when its name was changed to Ramat Gan, meaning 'Height of Garden'. Throughout the mid-20th century, the city underwent a profound economic shift. The first land parcels were acquired between 1914 and 1918. Initially, the settlement stood just south of the Arab village of Jarisha.
Following the influx of Iraqi Jews during Operation Ezra and Nehemiah, the city earned the nickname 'Little Baghdad' and became the birthplace of the traditional Iraqi Jewish dish, Sabich. By 1950, the settlement had achieved city status, and its population continued to grow from 12,000 in 1946 to 55,000 by 1955.
In the modern era, Ramat Gan has become a center for high-tech and global commerce. The Diamond Exchange District, which opened in 1968, is a world leader in the diamond trade and features the Moshe Aviv Tower—Israel's second-tallest building at 235 meters. The city also serves as a critical medical hub, housing the Sheba Medical Center, the largest hospital in Israel. This transition from a small agricultural colony to a dense, high-tech urban center is reflected in its population density, which remains among the highest in the country. The city is also home to Bar-Ilan University and the Shenkar College of Engineering and Design. Furthermore, it hosts the Israel Bible Center and various cultural venues like the Ramat Gan Theater.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Ramat Gan
- Also: Wikidata — Ramat Gan Stadium · CC0
- Also: Wikidata — Ramat Gan · CC0
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