The Volunteer in Palestine Program 2024/2025 presents a unique opportunity for individuals to engage in a transformative initiative lasting from 1 to 12 weeks. It’s an ideal chance for those who are enthusiastic about discovering Palestine, delving into its culture, fostering connections with Palestinians, residing within a host family, and, significantly, making a profoundly positive impact on the Palestinian community.

Distinguished among our array of programs, the Volunteer in Palestine program offers participants the privilege of interacting with school students, university students, and community members. Moreover, it facilitates the learning and practice of Arabic, enabling participants to immerse themselves in the richness of Arabic culture.

Carefully designed to deeply involve international participants within the Palestinian community, the Volunteer in Palestine program fosters active engagement in educational, social, and interactive activities. This ensures a comprehensive understanding of Palestinian culture. Participants have the opportunity to learn either Modern Standard Arabic or the Palestinian dialect, with the flexibility to choose a combination of both. Rest assured, the Volunteer in Palestine Program ensures access to all necessary curricula and learning materials throughout your involvement.

Arabic Language Learning During Volunteering

The Volunteer in Palestine Program 2024/2025 is dedicated to providing a comprehensive Arabic language education. With two classes per week, each lasting 1.5 hours, participants engage in a total of 3 hours of immersive learning. This structured format offers ample opportunities for students to delve into the intricacies of the Arabic language, culture, and communication. Through this approach, participants can develop a deeper understanding of Arabic and effectively enhance their proficiency level.

Empowering Students Through Conversational English Lessons

The Volunteer in Palestine Program 2024/2025 has a primary objective: to assist students in improving their English speaking and understanding skills. We achieve this by engaging in friendly conversations with all our students, irrespective of their age or gender. These purposeful conversations are crafted to enhance their English communication skills. We firmly believe that by refining their conversational abilities, we empower students to seize more opportunities in life and connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. In this way, language becomes a valuable tool to help them realize their dreams.

Living with a Palestinian Host Family

The Volunteer in Palestine Program 2024/2025 goes beyond just enhancing language skills. Our program provides a distinctive chance for students to immerse themselves in the community by staying with a Palestinian host family. This immersive experience goes beyond language learning, offering insights into the culture and daily life of their hosts.

Living with a Palestinian family serves as a window into local traditions, values, and hospitality, elevating the overall learning experience. It’s an opportunity to forge meaningful connections and develop a profound appreciation for Palestinian life, making the language and cultural exchange even more enriching.

Exploring Refugee Camps in Hebron and Bethlehem on Day Trips

The Volunteer in Palestine Program includes organized day trips to refugee camps in Hebron and Bethlehem. These excursions provide students with the opportunity to visit these specific communities and gain a close-up understanding of the lives of refugees in these areas. Spending time in these camps allows students to witness firsthand the challenges and resilience of the people living there.

These trips serve as enlightening experiences, expanding students’ horizons and fostering empathy as they gain insights into the unique circumstances of these two locations. The excursions contribute to a deeper understanding of the local situation and facilitate the building of connections with the people encountered, making the overall learning experience even more impactful.

City Exploration with Day Tours in Hebron

As part of our program, we invite you to join day tours in the city of Hebron, where each key area has its own unique story to share. These tours give students the chance to explore diverse facets of the city, from the historic Ibrahimi Mosque to the charming Old City and the significant Shuhadaa Street – all located in H2, an area under Israeli control, adding a crucial layer to understanding the Palestinian situation.

Throughout these guided tours, students can fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere of each location, gaining invaluable insights into the historical and contemporary life of the city’s inhabitants. This experience allows participants to understand the complex dynamics of Hebron and the challenges faced by the Palestinian community.

Moreover, the tours also include visits to local factories such as a glass factory, ceramics factory, kofeyah factory, and leather factory. These visits offer students a hands-on understanding of the local economy and the craftsmanship that plays a vital role in the community’s livelihood. By exploring Hebron’s cultural tapestry and its thriving industries, our program provides a comprehensive and enlightening experience, fostering both cultural appreciation and a deeper understanding of life in this unique Palestinian city.

Culinary Adventures: Preparing Authentic Palestinian Dishes Together

In our program, we don’t just explore Hebron’s culture; we fully embrace it through engaging hands-on experiences, including a delightful culinary adventure. Each participant will actively contribute to preparing an authentic Palestinian dish, creating a unique opportunity to learn and bond over the joys of cooking while indulging in the rich flavors of the region.

In the kitchen, tasks are shared among participants, from cutting vegetables to frying, stirring, and more. Everyone plays a crucial role in crafting a delicious meal, gaining a deep appreciation for the local cuisine. This culinary experience goes beyond savoring flavors; it’s also about understanding the profound significance of food in Palestinian culture. It serves as a meaningful way to connect with the community, creating lasting memories while participating in a cherished aspect of Palestinian life.

Exploring Beyond Hebron: Two Days Off Weekly for Adventures

In our program, we understand the value of taking time to explore the wider region. That’s why we offer participants two days off each week to venture beyond Hebron. These days provide the perfect opportunity to discover other captivating places in Palestine, including Bethlehem, Nablus, Ramallah, Jericho, and Jerusalem. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history, culture, and experiences that Palestine has to offer.

Furthermore, participants can use these days to explore Israeli areas, expanding their perspective on the complexities of the region. These two days off each week are carefully designed to give participants the freedom to travel, learn, and create memories that go beyond Hebron, ensuring a well-rounded and enriching experience.

https://www.goabroad.com/reviews/generator/provider/49111/0/672/250/0/0?layout_type=3&theme=light&show_name=0&logo_size=117&link=write

What is included in the Volunteer in Palesine 2024/2025 program?

The volunteer in Palestine program’s volunteering opportunities encompass the following:

• You have the option to contribute to the coordination of weekly workshops for Palestinian students, covering various educational topics including resume writing, formal email composition, employment skills, and educational writing skills.
• Additionally, you can take part in designing and delivering conversational English lessons to the students at the center, aiming to enhance their language proficiency and empower them to communicate more effectively in English.
• Moreover, you may choose to assist in coordinating captivating and interactive activities such as painting workshops, writing workshops, handicraft sessions, as well as filming and photography sessions. These activities offer our students opportunities to explore their creativity and develop new skills.

What makes GO Palestine a great choice?

• We do not charge any hidden or extra fees.
• Weekly trips are organized to various areas in Hebron and Bethlehem.
• We offer 3 hours of Arabic lessons per week, taught by our top Arabic teachers.
• Our center is centrally located in the city of Hebron, making it easily accessible for both our Palestinian and international students.
• We are flexible with program start and end times.
• We carefully select host families for female participants to ensure their comfort during their stay in Hebron.
• Local visits are organized to introduce our participants to the most popular landmarks of Hebron.
• We provide comprehensive assistance to our participants and offer guidance to enhance their experience.
• Our male participants have access to an 8th-floor apartment with a stunning view, equipped with everything they need and conveniently located just three minutes away from the center.

What advantages does the volunteer program offer?

• English language educational activities are offered to enhance students’ language skills.
• Participants are encouraged to actively engage in the Palestinian Center’s educational, social, and community activities, providing an opportunity to experience Palestinian culture and hospitality.
• The volunteer program encompasses visits to local sites in Hebron to gain insight into the city’s rich history.
• Accommodation options include staying with a local host family, at our 8th-floor apartment, or in private accommodation (with extra fees).
• Two classes of Arabic lessons (1.5 hours per class) are provided each week, totaling 3 hours.
• A delicious Palestinian breakfast is served daily.
• Local visits are organized to various places such as the old city, and participants will have the chance to meet with Palestinian families in Hebron.
• Day trips to refugee camps in Hebron and Bethlehem, as well as areas of political importance, are available.
• Upon completing the program, participants receive a participation certificate and a recommendation letter.

In what location does the program occur?

The program is strategically situated in the heart of Palestine, precisely in the city of Hebron, also referred to as Al-Khalil in Arabic. Hebron is nestled in the southern region of the West Bank, just 30 km (19 miles) south of Jerusalem. The population of Hebron comprises around 300,000 individuals within the city, and an additional 500,000 residents in nearby villages.

What is the maximum duration for participation in the program?

• Our program offers flexibility for volunteers to choose their preferred duration, ranging from one week to three months.
• Regardless of the duration chosen, we ensure that our volunteers receive full support and guidance throughout their stay at our center in Hebron.

The fees for the Volunteer in Palestine Program 2024/2025

What is included in the Participation Fee?

Accommodation	Accommodation is provided either with a host family or at our 8th-floor apartment. However, private accommodation is also available for an additional fee.
Arabic Lessons	The program entails two classes per week, with each class lasting 1.5 hours, for a total of 3 hours of Arabic lessons per week.
Meals	A Palestinian-style breakfast will be provided daily.
Day Trips	The program includes visits to refugee camps in Hebron and Bethlehem, as well as visits to areas of political significance.
Sightseeing	The program includes visits to historically and politically significant locations in the city of Hebron.
Certificate	Upon completion of the program, participants will receive a certificate of participation as well as a recommendation letter.

How to Obtain a Visa to Enter Palestine

For citizens of exempted countries, obtaining a tourist visa is convenient, as it can be acquired upon arrival at either Ben Gurion Airport (Tel Aviv) or the Allenby-King Hussein Bridge border crossing. Most Americans and Europeans are granted three-month visas upon arrival and customs clearance, valid for a period of 90 days.

However, if your home country does not have an exemption agreement with Israel, it is essential to obtain a visa from the Israeli embassy/consulate at home before visiting. It’s worth noting that many Arab countries do not accept Israeli stamps on passports. To address this, Israel now issues visas on a separate small card featuring a bar code indicating the visa’s time validity. This visa card should be kept with your passport at all times.

Before planning your visit, it’s advisable to check whether your native country participates in a visa exemption agreement with Israel.

Is Palestine safe?

Palestine stands as a secure destination for tourists, offering a setting where visitors can feel both secure and comfortable throughout their stay. While occasional news headlines may raise safety concerns, it’s crucial to recognize that the Palestinian Authority places a high priority on ensuring the safety and security of tourists. They actively work to create an environment where visitors not only feel safe but also have positive travel experiences.

Moreover, Go Palestine takes additional measures to ensure that visitors enjoy a safe and delightful trip. The organization goes above and beyond in providing excellent services and support throughout the journey, addressing any safety concerns that may arise. With their assistance, your trip to Palestine is not only memorable but also hassle-free, allowing you to focus on the richness of your travel experience.

Do I need to know how to speak Arabic?

Knowing Arabic is not mandatory for volunteers. However, our center offers Arabic language classes for those who are interested. We provide 3 hours of Arabic lessons per week, with two classes that are 1.5 hours each, taught by one of our teachers. You can choose to study either Modern Standard Arabic (Fusha) or Spoken Arabic Language (Ammyia) once you start your program

What is the application period for the program?

• The Volunteer in Palestine 2024/2025 Program welcomes applications year-round, with no fixed deadline. This allows you the convenience of applying whenever it suits you.
• We understand the importance of flexibility, so we offer a range of start and end dates for the Volunteer in Palestine Program. You have the freedom to choose a time frame that aligns with your schedule.
• Participants in the program also enjoy flexibility in their commitment, with the option to volunteer for a minimum of one week and a maximum of 12 weeks (three months). This ensures that your volunteering experience is tailored to your availability and preferences.

Location of the volunteer program	Hebron (H1 – Under Palestinian Control), Palestine
Fees for the volunteer program	Starting From 250$ – American Dollar
Age range	18-75 Years Old
Minimum duration for volunteering in Palestine	One Week
Maximum duration for volunteering in Palestine	Three Months – 12 Weeks
Volunteering Hours	4-5 hours a day – 5 days a week
Starting and ending dates	Flexible – Anytime
Application Deadline	No Deadline
Program Language	English
Days off	Two days including Fridays & Thursdays or Saturdays
Arabic language lessons	3 Hours a Week – Standard Arabic Or Ammiya
Educational qualifications	Not Required
University credits	Available

Can I increase my Arabic language instruction hours?

Volunteers can choose to increase their program’s Arabic language instruction hours. Extra hours are available for purchase at a rate of $20.00 per hour. If you want to include additional Arabic language instruction, kindly indicate your preference in your application.

Who is eligible to participate in the Volunteer in Palestine Program?

• The Palestinian Center warmly welcomes volunteers from around the world, including the USA, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Colombia, France, Japan, China, Chile, Switzerland, Russia, Germany, and more.
• Our volunteer and internship programs are open to individuals aged 18 to 75, regardless of nationality or university major (no degree required).
• Applicants under 18 can apply with parental consent. Parents or legal guardians must complete and sign a parental consent form for applicants in this age group.

Overview of weekly schedule

GO Palestine is dedicated to creating an engaging and varied weekly schedule for our volunteers. We strive to offer a mix of educational, social, and entertaining activities to ensure your time in Palestine is both distinctive and memorable.

Breakfast starts at 9:30 am

Our center starts the day with a special Palestinian breakfast at 9:30 am, wrapping up by around 10:15 am. The breakfast spread includes a variety of ingredients like Palestinian thyme (Zaatar), labneh, tomato and cucumber slices, falafel, hummus, mortadella, olives, yellow cheese, jam, pita bread, boiled or fried eggs, and French fries. We periodically switch up the ingredients to add variety to the breakfast experience.

The Content of the program starts at 10:30

The program content kicks off at 10:30 am and continues until 1:30 or 2:00 pm. During this time, we engage in conversational English teaching for Palestinians, including school students, university students, and community members.

Lunch Break starts at 2:00 pm

Lunch break starts at 2:00 pm and extends for an hour. This gives you the opportunity to buy lunch from a restaurant located next to the center. The nearby restaurants offer a variety of meals, including shawarma, falafel, fried chicken, traditional Palestinian dishes like Maqluba, Hebron’s Qidreh, Chicken Mansaf or Lamb Mansaf, and other delectable options. Moreover, there are several nearby supermarkets and malls where you can purchase ingredients if you prefer to cook at the center.

Arabic Language Classes (MSA and Levantine/Colloquial)

On a weekly basis, participants partake in two one-and-a-half-hour Arabic language classes instructed by qualified teachers. These classes are conducted at different times throughout the day. Participants have the option to focus on learning Modern Standard Arabic, Colloquial Arabic (Ammiya), or both based on their preference.

Day Trips to Refugee Camps in Bethlehem & Hebron

A weekly day trip is arranged to the refugee camps in Hebron and Bethlehem, as well as politically significant areas. This provides the chance to understand the circumstances of Palestinian refugees, engage in conversations with them, and listen to their stories. The trip starts from the center at 10:45 am and typically concludes around 2:00 or 3:00 pm.

Local Visits to Learn about the Landmarks of the city of Hebron

Every two weeks, there are local visits to Hebron’s historical and economic landmarks. These visits include exploring notable places like the Ibrahimi Mosque, the Old City, Al-Shuhada Street, and various factories such as those producing keffiyeh, glass, and ceramics.

Prepare & Cook a Traditional Palestinian Dish

Every two or three weeks, all of our volunteers, interns, and Arabic language students come together for a special activity. During this time, they collaborate to prepare and cook a traditional Palestinian dish. The process involves tasks such as preparing appetizers, frying vegetables, cooking rice, chopping chicken or meat, and stuffing vegetables based on the chosen dish for the day.

Free Time starts at 16:00 or at 16:30

After completing your time at the center, you’ll have free time to socialize with fellow international participants and locals you’ve met in Hebron. Explore the city by visiting a nearby café or coffee shop, or unwind in one of the many parks. The center is conveniently located on one of the liveliest streets in the city, offering numerous options for you to enjoy your evenings.

Combining the Program with Others: Is it Possible?

You have the flexibility to combine this program with other internship or volunteer programs available at the center. Whether you opt for a single week or extend your stay, you can seamlessly integrate another program for one week or more. Simplifying the process, you only need to fill out one application, and we will assist you in planning your schedule accordingly.

Important Information before Coming to Palestine

Palestine Living Expenses	Approx. 50-70$ a Week
Weekend in Palestine	On Friday
Food in Palestine	The West Bank engages primarily in heavier meals involving the use of bread, rice, and meat, and coastal plain inhabitants frequent fish, other seafood, and lentils.
Wifi Access in Palestine	At houses, cafes, restaurants – Almost everywhere
3G Service in Palestine	Available since Jan 2018
The official language in Palestine	Arabic – Palestinian Dialect (One of the Levantine dialects)
Currency in Palestine	Mainly Israeli Shekel (NIS). Jordanian Dinar & American Dollars are also used in buying Real estate and land.
Transportations in Palestine	Yellow Taxies & Orange Mini-Vans
Weather in Palestine	Summer (25-30°C), Winter (0-9°C)
Nearest Major Airports to Palestine	Ben Gurion Airport in Israel if you travel via Israel Alia International Airport if you travel via Jordan

Can I Extend My Program Duration While in Palestine?

Volunteers have the option to extend their participation period by notifying the center coordinator at least one week before the scheduled end of the program.

What can be added to your volunteer program? “EXTRAS“

• Additional hours of Arabic language learning beyond the specified weekly hours are available for an extra fee of $20 per additional hour.
• We also offer private tours to other cities in Palestine, including Ramallah, Nablus, Jenin, and Jericho. You can learn more about these tours by clicking HERE.
• For your convenience, we provide a pick-up and drop-off service from Ben Gurion Airport directly to Hebron within an hour and a half. The cost of this service is 130 USD (one way).
• If you have a friend or partner accompanying you, we offer accommodation options in Hebron, either in our apartment or with a Palestinian family. You can explore our hostel & private apartment in Hebron by clicking Click HERE.

What is the application process?

• Request the application form by emailing us.
• Fill out and send back the application.
• We’ll invite you to attend a video interview via Skype/WhatsApp.
• Upon acceptance, receive and complete the confirmation form, contract, and invoice for payment.
• Sign the contract and make the payment to secure your place in the program.
• After payment, you will receive an orientation booklet and travel guide.
• Feel free to contact the center using the provided coordinator’s contact number.

Related Volunteer Programs

Volunteer to Teaching English to Palestinian Children	Teaching English to Palestinian Children (1-12 Weeks) is a vital and fulfilling role, offering children access to a valuable language that can shape their future. Moreover, it acts as a bridge across cultures, fostering mutual understanding between Palestine and the world by promoting a shared language.
Volunteer at local Schools in Palestine	Volunteer at Local Schools in Palestine (1-12 Weeks) offers a unique chance to visit Palestine, engage with Palestinian students in Hebron, and leave a positive mark on the community.
Volunteer with Palestinian Refugees	Make a Meaningful Difference with Palestinian Refugees by joining the Volunteer with Palestinian Refugees program. This unique opportunity allows you to engage with refugees, teach conversational English, and positively impact their lives in challenging conditions. Choose from durations of one to twelve weeks and be part of change.
Volunteer with Palestinian Children	Empower Palestinian Children through Volunteering in our program, spanning 1 to 12 weeks. By spending time with the children, you can create a positive impact on their lives and families, offering education, recreation, and emotional support that truly makes a difference in the Palestinian community.
Volunteer or Intern at a Palestinian Hospital Program	Contribute to Healthcare in Palestine through the Volunteer or Intern at a Palestinian Hospital Program, which spans 1 to 12 weeks. This unique opportunity allows individuals from around the world to make an impact on the healthcare system in the Palestinian territories, offering a hands-on experience within a hospital setting.
Volunteer in Marginalized Areas & Refugees Camps in Palestine	Volunteer in Marginalized Areas & Refugee Camps in Palestine for one week to three months, making a difference in Hebron and Bethlehem Refugee Camps, Palestinian villages, and marginalized regions like Massafer Yatta and Bani Naim. Your participation can create a positive impact on underserved communities.
The Family Volunteer in Palestine Program – With Children under 18-Year-Old	Family Volunteering in Palestine (1-12 Weeks) is a remarkable opportunity for families with children under 18, seeking a meaningful experience. Facilitated by GO Palestine, it offers a unique combination of cultural immersion, community engagement, and educational enrichment, fostering shared experiences for parents and children alike.

Documents Provided in Our Program

Important Articles to READ – Please Click to Read

How to fly to Palestine?	Is Palestine Safe?
Visa to Palestine	Travelling SOLO to Palestine
Hebron City	What to wear in Palestine?
First Impressions of the Palestinian People	What to Pack for a Summer in Palestine?

How to request more information or apply for the program?

To apply for the Volunteer in Palestine Program, please reach out to Mr. Tamimi by emailing info@gopalestine.ps with “The Volunteer in Palestine Program 2024/2025” in the subject line. In your email, express your interest, ask any questions you may have, and request an application. We will promptly respond to your email.

Let’s Chat!

WhatsApp or Signal : +972-598172071

• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube
• WhatsApp
• Telegram
• Google
• Skype
• TikTok

Let’s welcome you to Palestine!