Palestinian Territories

Travel tips for Palestinian Territories: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Carry some cash. Although major hotels and upscale restaurants in cities accept cards, cash is still king in the West Bank; travelers should carry Israeli Shekels for daily expenses like markets, taxis, and small cafes.

Try the food

  • Musakhan (مسخن): A hearty dish of roasted chicken baked with onions, sumac, allspice, and pine nuts, served over thick taboon bread.
  • Maqluba (مقلوبة): A savory layered pot of meat, rice, and fried vegetables that is dramatically flipped upside down onto a serving dish.
  • Knafeh (كنافة): A warm, gooey sweet cheese pastry soaked in fragrant sugar syrup and topped with crushed pistachios.

Say it in Arabic

  • Hello: مرحبا (Marhaba)
  • Thank you: شكرا (Shukran)
  • Please: من فضلك (Min fadlak)
  • Excuse me: لو سمحت (Law samaht)
  • How much is this?: بكم هذا؟ (Bikam hatha?)
  • The bill please: الفاتورة لو سمحت (Al-fatoorah law samaht)
  • Yes / No: نعم / لا (Na'am / La)
  • Goodbye: مع السلامة (Ma'a as-salamah)

Essentials

Voltage
230V, 50Hz
Driving
Right side
SIM tip
Pick up a local Jawwal or Ooredoo SIM card at official shops in major towns, or download a regional eSIM before arrival for instant data access.

Etiquette

Dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees, especially in rural areas and religious sites, and leave a 10% tip in restaurants if service is not included.