Haifa, the third largest city in Israel, is situated on the slopes and mountaintop of the Carmel Mountain. It is often referred to as ‘the capital of Israel's north’, and has a population of over 270 thousand inhabitants. Haifa is one of the largest industrial centers in Israel and a hub for transport, trade, shipping and tourism. It is home to world famous universities like the Technion, the University of Haifa, and other high level institutions for higher education and scientific research.