People who come to Palestine might be eager to visit Hebron or even to volunteer, intern, or work at one of the many NGOs in the city. However, these same people may be dissuaded upon hearing that Hebron is a conservative city. This article will explain, in detail, how conservative Hebron is.
Hebron, or as it’s called in Arabic, Al-Khalil, is a Palestinian city located in the southern half of the West Bank. It is 30 km (19 miles) away from Jerusalem and is the second biggest city in Palestine, after Gaza. In Hebron, there are around 300,000 Palestinians living in the city and around 500,000 living in the surrounding villages. There are between 500 and 850 Jewish settlers who also live in Hebron.
What are the People of Hebron Famous for?
If you ask any Palestinian about the residents of Hebron they will likely say, “they are the most generous people in all Palestine.” The people of Hebron are well-known for being warm, friendly, and welcoming.
In Hebron, you will be invited for a cup of tea and/or coffee or to have dinner in the home of someone you just met. This is totally different from Western culture but in Hebron it is normal. People in Hebron are raised on the philosophy of hospitality toward guests and treating them, regardless of who they are, like family.
They are very eager to host foreigners from all over the world and to learn about their cultures. They treat those they host as a part of their families and frequently take them to traditional occasions such as weddings, celebrations, and birthday parties.
The Palestinian Center – Go Palestine has a history of facilitating homestays with host families in Hebron and has established relationships with families around the city. Most foreigners who come and stay with a host family in Hebron enjoy it a lot, many even crying upon their departure.
Why does Hebron have a Reputation as a Conservative City?
People in Hebron have a set of traditions and customs that they sincerely adhere to. Most women in Hebron cover their hair with a hijab and cover their bodies with more modest clothing, but that does not mean that they are not free to work, own businesses, a study just as any man could.
Examples of the conservative culture in Hebron include gender-segregated seating at public events like weddings. Many women do not shake men’s hands, so male visitors should avoid extending their hand to a woman unless she does so first. In addition, women generally do not hug or kiss men unless they are related or married.
Because Hebron is a conservative and religious city, alcoholic drinks are not sold and indeed not allowed at all in the city of Hebron. It is therefore advised that you avoid drinking or possessing alcohol during your stay in Hebron as a sign of respect for the local culture and as a means of avoiding any uncomfortable issues with the local population.
Despite a prohibition in Hebron, alcohol is not legally forbidden in Palestine at large and, in some cities such as Bethlehem, or Birzeit near Ramallah, there are long-standing traditions of wine and beer production. In these locations drinking alcohol is acceptable, although not in public places.
What Should I Wear in Palestine/Hebron?
While taking care to wear clothing that makes you feel comfortable, keep in mind that Hebron is one of the most conservative cities in Palestine, and almost all Palestinian women wear the hijab and dress modestly.
If you wear clothing that reveals your arms or legs, it is likely that you will receive a lot of attention. Most female volunteers opt for long trousers or pants, or skirts that reach the ankles, combined with loose-fitting shirts that reach the elbows, although t-shirts are also acceptable. In addition, men are advised to cover from their neck to below their knees. Sandals are fine for both men and women.
In Hebron, most men do not wear jewelry. Tattoos for men and women, but especially for women, are highly unusual. Be aware of these things and dress in a way that makes you and the people around you comfortable.
How to reach us out?
Please send an email to info@gopalestine.org. In the body of the email tell us of your interest or ask any questions you may have. Very shortly we will reply to you!
