Seder in the sand: Abramovich to celebrate Pesach in the Negev

Roman Abramovich will spend Passover camping in the Negev desert.

The billionaire Russian and his girlfriend, Daria Zhukova are scheduled to arrive in Israel by private jet on Sunday ahead of celebrations in Mitzpe Ramon where a huge tent has been constructed for the first night seder.

There will be nine different events over the week and Abramovich is rumoured to be spending part of the time staying at a hotel located in the heart of the desert on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Ramon Crater.

With more than 40 people joining him for the celebrations, guests will be able to take  jeep tours through the Negev, try rapelling on the rocks or ride in a hot air balloon.

During previous visits to Israel at Passover Abramovich  has stayed at the Royal Beach Hotel in Eilat and  held events at  Timna Valley Park, north of the city. “It’s all very hush-hush when he comes,” said an employee of the company hired to set up the events.

“The organisers have been tearing from place to place in order to create the most stylish and beautiful sets for the Seder   It is very exclusive with a lot of security in place so that things go smoothly.”

Though he is not known to be actively pursuing business interests in Israel, Abramovich was spotted in Tel Aviv dropping in at a private equity conference last October.