1. Entry Requirements & Documents

Entry is controlled through Israel

Foreign visitors generally do not enter the West Bank or Gaza through separate Palestinian international airports. Entry, exit and movement are subject to Israeli immigration, border and security controls. Procedures can change without notice and are affected by nationality, travel purpose, family connections, intended destinations and current security conditions.

Gaza does not have normal access for tourists. Entry is severely restricted and usually limited to specifically authorised humanitarian, medical, diplomatic or other essential cases. Do not attempt tourism travel to Gaza.

Visa and entry requirements

For most foreign visitors, entry is handled through Israel’s immigration system. Depending on nationality, travellers may need an Israeli visa, ETA-IL electronic travel authorisation, or other permission before departure. An entry authorisation for Israel does not guarantee access to the West Bank, and it does not permit access to Gaza.

• Check current Israeli entry requirements, including ETA-IL eligibility, before booking travel.
• Carry a passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended date of arrival.
• Carry hotel bookings, local contact details, onward travel and proof of sufficient funds.
• Be prepared for detailed questioning about your itinerary, contacts, purpose of travel and planned locations.
• Border authorities have broad discretion to refuse entry or restrict movement.
• Do not assume that a visa, ticket or hotel booking guarantees entry.

Official ETA-IL information: Official Israel ETA-IL Application Service.

West Bank movement restrictions

Checkpoints, road closures, security operations, restricted roads, permit requirements and sudden changes in access can affect movement throughout the West Bank. Conditions differ significantly between cities, rural villages, roads and areas near settlements or military zones.

• Do not travel through areas affected by active unrest, military operations or demonstrations.
• Do not approach settlements, military installations, barriers, border areas or checkpoints for sightseeing or photography.
• Check local access conditions immediately before any trip between cities.
• Carry passport, entry documentation and hotel contact details at all times.
• Use locally informed, vetted transport if essential travel is unavoidable.

Useful documents for essential travel

• Passport and valid Israeli entry permission, ETA-IL approval or visa where required.
• Return or onward travel ticket.
• Accommodation booking and local contact details.
• Travel insurance that explicitly confirms its security-related exclusions and limits.
• Emergency contacts for your embassy, insurer, accommodation and trusted local contacts.
• Prescription documentation for medicines.
• Digital and printed copies of all travel documents.

Customs and restricted items

Security screening is extensive. Do not bring weapons, drones, restricted communications equipment, political materials, prohibited drugs or items that could be viewed as a security concern. Photography at checkpoints, military sites, borders, police facilities or security infrastructure can lead to questioning or detention.

2. Health, Vaccinations & Insurance

Healthcare and current limitations

Healthcare availability differs sharply between the West Bank and Gaza. In the West Bank, private and public facilities exist in larger cities such as Ramallah, Bethlehem, Nablus and Hebron, but access can be affected by closures, security conditions and movement restrictions. Gaza faces a severe humanitarian and health emergency, with healthcare infrastructure under extreme pressure.

Do not travel to Gaza for tourism. Essential humanitarian or medical travel requires specialist security, medical, legal and organisational arrangements.

Travel health insurance

Standard travel insurance may exclude travel to areas subject to official warnings, armed conflict, terrorism, civil unrest or military operations. Do not assume that ordinary travel or credit-card insurance is valid for the West Bank or Gaza.

• Obtain written confirmation from your insurer before any essential travel.
• Check exclusions for war, terrorism, civil unrest, medical evacuation and cancellation.
• Confirm whether evacuation is realistically available from the planned location.
• Carry the insurer’s emergency assistance details offline.
• Essential work travel should include specialist security and medical evacuation planning.

Health preparation

• Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
• Carry prescription medicine in original packaging with a doctor’s letter.
• Bring a personal first-aid kit, sunscreen, rehydration salts and basic supplies.
• Drink sufficient water in hot weather, especially in the Jordan Valley and Jericho area.
• Check access to pharmacies and clinics before travelling outside main urban centres.

Water and food safety

Water quality and infrastructure can vary by location. Use bottled or treated water where supply quality is uncertain, especially outside established accommodation. Choose freshly cooked food and follow local health guidance during any disruption to water, sanitation or power services.

3. Safety & Travel Advisories

Current security situation

Gaza is an active conflict zone and should not be visited. The West Bank, including East Jerusalem, can experience armed operations, military raids, demonstrations, roadblocks, attacks, civil unrest, settlement-related violence, checkpoint closures and sudden restrictions on movement.

Conditions can change within hours. Always monitor your own government’s travel advice, official local information, accommodation updates and reliable news. Do not rely on social-media rumours for safety decisions.

Major risks

• Armed conflict, military operations and airstrikes in Gaza.
• Military raids, arrests, checkpoints, road closures and civil unrest in the West Bank.
• Demonstrations, clashes and violence near settlements, checkpoints and sensitive religious sites.
• Limited emergency medical access and restricted movement during security incidents.
• Sudden closure of border crossings, roads, airports and public transport routes.
• Very limited consular access to Gaza and potentially restricted assistance in the West Bank.

Gaza

Do not travel to Gaza. Gaza faces active hostilities, widespread destruction, severe humanitarian needs, unexploded ordnance risk, limited medical capacity, major movement restrictions and extremely limited consular access. Entry is not available for normal tourism.

West Bank and East Jerusalem

Travel to the West Bank or East Jerusalem should be assessed against current official advice. Avoid demonstrations, refugee camps, settlement areas, military checkpoints, border zones, security operations and locations where tension is high. Do not travel at night outside well-informed, essential routes.

• Do not approach checkpoints, military sites, barriers or security installations.
• Do not photograph police, soldiers, security forces or military activity.
• Do not attend protests or political gatherings.
• Keep a low profile and avoid discussing sensitive political issues in public.
• Carry emergency contacts, identification, water, cash and a charged phone.
• Be prepared to shelter in place or change plans immediately.

Official travel warnings

• United Kingdom: Israel and Palestinian Territories Travel Advice
• United States: Israel, West Bank and Gaza Travel Advisory
• Australia: Israel and Palestinian Territories Travel Advice
• Canada: West Bank and Gaza Strip Travel Advice
• Germany: Israel and Palestinian Territories Travel Advice
• Austria: Israel and Palestinian Territories Travel Information

4. Emergency & Important Numbers

Emergency numbers

Emergency services and response capacity differ by location. In the West Bank, emergency access can be affected by checkpoints, security operations and road closures. In Gaza, emergency services and medical infrastructure are under severe pressure. Do not rely solely on public emergency numbers.

• Palestinian Civil Police emergency: 100
• Palestinian ambulance and medical emergency: 101
• Palestinian Civil Defence / Fire: 102
• Israeli Police: 100
• Israeli ambulance, Magen David Adom: 101
• Israeli Fire and Rescue: 102
• Israel Home Front Command: 104
• UNRWA emergency and humanitarian information: Check current local contact procedures through official channels.

Numbers may not be reachable from all networks or locations, and English-language support cannot be assumed. In a serious emergency, contact your accommodation, trusted local contact, employer or professional security provider in addition to emergency services.

Israeli civil-defence information: Israel Home Front Command.

Emergency planning checklist

• Save 100, 101, 102, 104, your insurer’s emergency number and embassy contacts.
• Keep your accommodation name, exact address and location pin available offline.
• Ask accommodation staff about nearby shelters, medical facilities and local movement restrictions.
• Carry water, cash, power bank, passport and essential medicines.
• Monitor official alerts and follow instructions immediately during security incidents.
• Do not rely on commercial flights, checkpoints or border crossings being open if conditions deteriorate.

5. Embassies & Consulates

Consular assistance is limited

Most foreign embassies are located in Israel rather than in the West Bank or Gaza. Consular access to Gaza is extremely limited or unavailable. Assistance in the West Bank can also be restricted by security conditions, checkpoints and Israeli entry controls.

Do not travel on the assumption that an embassy can arrange rescue, evacuation, border access or immediate assistance.

Useful embassy and consular links

• Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates
• U.S. Embassy in Israel
• British Consulate General Jerusalem
• Representative Office of Germany in Ramallah
• Austrian Embassy Tel Aviv
• Australian Representative Office to the Palestinian Territories
• Canada: Embassies and Consulates Abroad

United States Embassy contact

• U.S. Embassy Jerusalem: +972 2 630 4000.
• Address: 14 David Flusser Street, Jerusalem.

Before any essential travel, verify current service levels, office locations, security restrictions and emergency procedures directly through the relevant embassy or representative office.

6. Background on the State of Palestine & Society

Country overview

The State of Palestine is recognised by many countries and includes the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip. Its geography includes highland cities, the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea area, agricultural villages, Mediterranean coastlines in Gaza and historically important religious and archaeological sites.

Palestinian society has deep Arab, Islamic, Christian, Mediterranean, Levantine and rural cultural traditions. Family ties, hospitality, food, embroidery, olive cultivation, music, literature and community life are important parts of Palestinian identity.

Languages and religion

• Official language: Arabic.
• English: Used in education, tourism, business and international organisations, especially in larger towns.
• Religion: Islam is the largest religion; Palestinian Christian communities are also central to the region’s heritage.
• Culture: Palestinian culture includes cuisine, dabke dance, embroidery, olive-oil production, poetry, crafts and local traditions.

Respectful behaviour

• Dress modestly, especially in religious places and conservative communities.
• Ask permission before photographing people, homes, ceremonies, camps or religious sites.
• Use the right hand when giving or receiving food, money or gifts.
• Respect mosque, church and shrine rules.
• Do not discuss politics, military activity, conflict or security matters casually in public.
• Respect Ramadan customs and avoid eating, drinking or smoking openly in public during daylight hours where appropriate.

7. Climate, Weather & Clothing

Climate

The West Bank has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cooler, wetter winters. Conditions vary with altitude: Jerusalem, Ramallah and Bethlehem can be cold in winter, while Jericho and the Jordan Valley can be very hot for much of the year. Gaza has a Mediterranean coastal climate but current conflict conditions override ordinary travel planning.

Weather considerations

• Summer heat can be intense in Jericho, the Jordan Valley and areas near the Dead Sea.
• Winter rain can affect roads, hiking routes and access to rural areas.
• Flash floods can occur in wadis after heavy rain.
• Cold nights are possible in highland cities during winter.
• Weather conditions do not reduce the overriding security risks.

Clothing guidance

• Wear light, breathable clothes during warm months.
• Carry water, a hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen.
• Bring a light jacket for highland evenings, air-conditioned spaces and winter travel.
• Wear sturdy shoes for old cities, uneven streets and historic sites.
• Dress modestly in religious and conservative areas.
• Follow local and organisational security guidance rather than planning outdoor travel independently.

8. Language & Communication

Languages

• Official language: Arabic.
• English: Used in tourism, education, business and international organisations.
• Hebrew: Relevant for some travel, signage, checkpoints and interaction with Israeli authorities.

Useful Arabic phrases

• Hello: Marhaba / As-salamu alaykum
• Thank you: Shukran
• Please: Min fadlak for a man / Min fadlik for a woman
• Yes: Na'am
• No: La
• Excuse me: Afwan
• Help: Musa'ada
• Emergency: Taware'

Communications and internet

Mobile coverage, internet access, electricity and communications can be affected by security incidents, military operations, infrastructure damage and local restrictions. Gaza faces severe disruptions. Essential travellers should maintain offline maps, printed contacts and backup power.

• Do not rely on public Wi-Fi or normal roaming for emergency communication.
• Assume that access can be interrupted during security incidents.
• Do not post locations, movements, checkpoints, military activity or local contact details online.
• Carry a power bank and printed emergency information.
• Follow local law and professional security guidance regarding communications.

9. Voltage & Plug Types

Electricity in the West Bank and Gaza

• Voltage: Usually 230 V.
• Frequency: 50 Hz.
• Plug types: Type C and Type H are commonly encountered.

Practical electricity advice

Travellers from Germany, Austria and many European countries can often use Type C plugs. Travellers from the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia and countries using different plug types will generally need an adapter.

Electricity supply can be disrupted, especially in Gaza and during security incidents. Essential authorised personnel should carry approved backup power, spare cables and lighting in line with organisational security protocols.

10. Money & Finances

Currency

There is no separate Palestinian national currency in regular circulation. The Israeli new shekel (ILS) is widely used in the West Bank and Gaza, while Jordanian dinars and US dollars may also be used or accepted in some contexts.

Payments and banking limitations

• Cash is important, especially in smaller towns and areas with payment-system disruptions.
• Cards may be accepted in larger hotels, restaurants and shops in the West Bank, but should not be relied upon.
• ATM access and banking services can be affected by closures, security incidents and local conditions.
• Carry small cash denominations, but avoid carrying large amounts because of security risk.
• International transfers and payment services may be limited or disrupted.
• Essential work travel should follow employer cash-management and legal-compliance procedures.

Insurance and legal compliance

Insurance coverage may be invalid in areas subject to official travel warnings or active conflict. Confirm coverage in writing and seek professional advice before any essential work-related travel or financial activity.

11. Transport & Arrival

Transport access is controlled and unstable

There is no normal independent international arrival system for the West Bank or Gaza. Access is generally through Israel-controlled crossings, subject to immigration, security and movement restrictions. Gaza crossings are severely restricted and not available for ordinary tourism.

West Bank travel

• Travellers normally arrive through Ben Gurion Airport or an Israel-controlled land crossing.
• Movement can be affected by checkpoints, road closures, military operations and changing access restrictions.
• Do not depend on public transport or taxis operating normally during security incidents.
• Use professionally vetted transport for essential work travel.
• Do not travel at night on unfamiliar or security-sensitive routes.

Gaza access

Gaza does not have normal tourist access. Airports, ports and border crossings are not available for ordinary visitor travel. Entry requires specific authorisation and is subject to active conflict, border controls and humanitarian arrangements.

Useful transport and airport links

• Israel Airports Authority: Ben Gurion Airport
• Israel Home Front Command
• UK guidance on security and travel conditions

12. Accommodation & Practical On-Site Information

Accommodation is subject to security conditions

Accommodation availability, movement, utilities, water, power, communications and medical access can be affected by security incidents, military operations, curfews and infrastructure disruption. Gaza is not suitable for tourist accommodation.

• Do not book accommodation in Gaza for leisure travel.
• Essential personnel should use employer-approved and security-vetted accommodation.
• Confirm safe water, backup power, emergency procedures and local communication methods.
• Do not disclose accommodation locations publicly.
• Expect sudden road closures, movement restrictions and changes to local services.

Practical supplies for essential travel

• Carry essential water, food, medicine, cash, backup power and printed documents.
• Do not rely on shops, pharmacies, ATMs or transport services operating normally.
• Follow organisational and local guidance for supply planning.
• Keep accommodation and evacuation plans flexible.

13. Food, Drink & Cuisine

Palestinian culinary heritage

Palestinian cuisine is part of the wider Levantine food tradition and is known for olive oil, bread, herbs, vegetables, pulses, rice, lamb, chicken, sweets and seasonal produce. This section is cultural background only and should not be read as a recommendation for tourism travel in current conditions.

Typical Palestinian dishes

• Musakhan: Roasted chicken with onions, sumac and flatbread.
• Maqluba: Upside-down rice dish with meat, vegetables and spices.
• Maftoul: Palestinian couscous-style grain dish served with vegetables or meat.
• Hummus: Chickpea dip with tahini, lemon and olive oil.
• Falafel: Fried chickpea or fava-bean patties.
• Fattah: Bread, yoghurt, chickpeas and toppings prepared in regional variations.
• Qidreh: Spiced rice and lamb dish associated with Hebron.
• Knafeh: Sweet cheese pastry, especially associated with Nablus.

Food and water safety

Essential travellers should follow strict food- and water-safety procedures. In areas affected by conflict or service disruption, safe water, refrigeration, hygiene and food supply cannot be assumed.

• Drink sealed, treated or professionally supplied water only.
• Eat freshly cooked food from vetted providers.
• Follow organisational medical protocols for food and water.
• Carry emergency nutrition and medical supplies if required.

14. Time Zone & Public Holidays

Time zone

• Standard time: UTC+2.
• Daylight saving time: The West Bank typically observes daylight saving time, usually UTC+3, though exact dates can change.
• Difference from Central Europe: Usually one hour ahead of Germany, Austria and Switzerland, though transition dates can create temporary variation.
• Difference from the United Kingdom: Usually two hours ahead, with possible variation during clock-change periods.

Important public and religious holidays

• New Year’s Day: 1 January.
• International Women’s Day: 8 March.
• Labour Day: 1 May.
• Palestinian Independence Day: 15 November.
• Christmas: Observed according to different Christian calendars and communities.
• Eid al-Fitr: Date changes annually according to the Islamic calendar.
• Eid al-Adha: Date changes annually.
• Islamic New Year and Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday: Dates change annually.
• Ramadan: Affects opening hours, dining and public activity.

Security conditions, military restrictions, curfews and road closures can have a far greater impact on movement and services than the standard holiday calendar. Do not use holiday schedules as a basis for tourism planning.

15. Attractions & Highlights

Cultural and religious heritage

The State of Palestine has sites of extraordinary religious, historical and archaeological significance. However, access and safety conditions can change rapidly. This section is provided for cultural context only; it is not a recommendation to travel under current conditions.

• Bethlehem: Birthplace tradition of Jesus and home to the Church of the Nativity, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Jericho: One of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, with archaeological sites including Tell es-Sultan.
• Hebron / Al-Khalil: Historic old city and the Ibrahimi Mosque / Cave of the Patriarchs, subject to strict access and security conditions.
• Ramallah: Cultural, administrative and arts centre in the West Bank.
• Nablus: Historic old city, soap-making heritage and knafeh tradition.
• Jerusalem: Sacred city with sites of global importance; access and security conditions require exceptional care.
• Battir: Cultural landscape of terraces and irrigation systems, UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Wadi Qelt: Desert valley and monastery landscape near Jericho.

Gaza heritage

Gaza has important coastal, archaeological and cultural heritage. However, it is an active conflict zone with extensive destruction and no normal visitor access. Do not travel there for tourism or sightseeing.

Do not travel for sightseeing

Religious and historical importance does not make a destination safe. Travel can endanger visitors, local communities, guides, medical workers and humanitarian personnel. Do not attempt leisure travel while official advisories warn against it.

16. Nightlife & Events

Not applicable for tourism under current conditions

Current conflict, movement restrictions, curfews, infrastructure disruption and security risks mean there is no predictable, safe visitor nightlife or events environment in Gaza and many parts of the West Bank.

In normal circumstances, Ramallah, Bethlehem and Nablus have cafés, restaurants, music, art and cultural life. Current conditions, however, override conventional tourism planning. Essential personnel should follow strict organisational security rules on movement, public venues, communications and accommodation.

17. Media & Further Links

Official travel warnings

• United Kingdom: Israel and Palestinian Territories Travel Advice
• United States: Israel, West Bank and Gaza Travel Advisory
• Australia: Israel and Palestinian Territories Travel Advice
• Canada: West Bank and Gaza Strip Travel Advice
• Germany: Israel and Palestinian Territories Travel Advice
• Austria: Israel and Palestinian Territories Travel Information

Humanitarian and health information

• World Health Organization: occupied Palestinian territory
• United Nations OCHA: occupied Palestinian territory
• UNRWA
• UNICEF State of Palestine
• International Committee of the Red Cross: Israel and occupied territories

Official and consular information

• Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates
• Israel Home Front Command
• Official Israel ETA-IL Application Service
• British Consulate General Jerusalem

Maps, images, video and news

• Google Maps: Palestinian Territories
• Image Search: Palestinian Cultural Heritage
• YouTube: Palestinian Culture Documentaries
• Google News: Palestine

Reliable news and analysis

• Reuters: Middle East News
• BBC News: Israel-Gaza War
• International Crisis Group: Israel and Palestine