Volunteer in the West Bank/Palestine (1-12 Weeks) program is a great opportunity for those who want to travel to Palestine, get to know Palestinian culture, interact with Palestinians, live with a host family, and most importantly have a very positive impact on the Palestinian community.
Volunteer in the West Bank/Palestine program is one of our programs that will give you the chance to volunteer with school students, university students, and community members and, at the same time, study and practice Arabic as well as immerse yourself in Arabic culture.
Volunteer in the West Bank/Palestine program is designed to engage internationals within the Palestinian community and fully engage in Palestinian culture by participating in our educational, social, and interactive activities.You will have the opportunity to learn either Modern Standard Arabic or the Palestinian dialect through the Program. Additionally, you may choose to learn a combination of both languages. Rest assured that all necessary curriculums and learning materials will be provided to you.
Arabic Language Learning During Volunteering
In a bid to provide comprehensive Arabic language education, two classes, each spanning 1.5 hours, are offered every week. These classes combine to create a total of 3 hours of immersive learning, giving students ample opportunities to delve into the intricacies of the Arabic language, culture, and communication. With this structured approach, participants can gain a deeper understanding of Arabic and enhance their proficiency efficiently.
Empowering Students Through Conversational English Lessons
Our main goal is to help students get better at speaking and understanding English. We make this happen by having friendly conversations with all our students, no matter their age or gender. These conversations are designed to teach them how to talk better in English. We believe that by improving their conversation skills, we can help them have more chances in life and connect with people from different places. This way, language becomes a tool to help them reach their dreams.
Living with a Palestinian Host Family
In addition to improving language skills, our program offers a unique opportunity for students to experience life in the community by staying with a Palestinian host family. This immersive experience allows students to not only learn the language but also understand the culture and daily life of their hosts.
Living with a Palestinian family provides a window into the traditions, values, and hospitality of the local community, enriching the overall learning experience. It’s a chance to build meaningful connections and gain a deeper appreciation of Palestinian life, making the language and cultural exchange even more enriching.
Exploring Refugee Camps in Hebron and Bethlehem on Day Trips
In our program, we organize day trips to refugee camps in Hebron and Bethlehem. These trips give students a chance to visit these specific communities and get a closer look at the lives of refugees in these areas. By spending time in these camps, students can see firsthand the challenges and resilience of the people living there.
It’s an enlightening opportunity to broaden their horizons and develop empathy while gaining insights into the unique circumstances of these two locations. These trips help students understand the local situation and build connections with the people they meet, making the learning experience even more impactful.
City Exploration with Day Tours in Hebron
As part of our program, we offer day tours in the city of Hebron, encompassing key areas, each with its unique story to tell. These tours provide students with the opportunity to explore the city’s diverse facets, from the historic Ibrahimi Mosque to the charming Old City and the significant Shuhadaa Street, all located in H2, an area under Israeli control, which adds an important layer to understanding the Palestinian situation.
During these guided tours, students can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of these different locations, gaining invaluable insights into the historical and contemporary life of the city’s inhabitants. This experience allows participants to grasp the complex dynamics of Hebron and the challenges faced by the Palestinian community.
Furthermore, the tours extend to visits to local factories, including a glass factory, ceramics factory, kofeyah factory, and leather factory. These visits provide students with 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 the thriving industries within, our program offers a comprehensive and enlightening experience for our participants, 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 also embrace it through hands-on experiences, including a delightful culinary adventure. Each participant will have the opportunity to take an active role in preparing an authentic Palestinian dish. It’s a chance to learn and bond over the joys of cooking while savoring the flavors of the region.
In the kitchen, tasks are shared, from cutting vegetables to frying, stirring, and more. Everyone plays a part in creating a delicious meal, and in doing so, gains an appreciation for the local cuisine. This culinary experience is not only about savoring the flavors but also understanding the significance of food in Palestinian culture. It’s a meaningful way to connect with the community and forge lasting memories while taking part in a cherished aspect of Palestinian life.
Exploring Beyond Hebron: Two Days Off Weekly for Adventures
In our program, we recognize the importance of taking time to explore the wider region. That’s why we provide participants with two days off each week to venture beyond Hebron. These days are perfect for discovering other enchanting places in Palestine, such as Bethlehem, Nablus, Ramallah, Jericho, and Jerusalem. It’s an opportunity to absorb the rich tapestry of history, culture, and experiences that Palestine has to offer.
Additionally, participants can use these days to explore Israeli areas, broadening their perspective on the complexities of the region. These two days off each week are designed to give participants the freedom to travel, learn, and create memories that extend beyond Hebron, ensuring a well-rounded and enriching experience.
What is included in the Volunteer in the West Bank program?
The West Bank program’s volunteering opportunities encompass the following:
- You may opt to assist in the coordination of weekly workshops for Palestinian students that cover various educational topics such as resume writing, formal email composition, employment skills, and educational writing skills.
- Designing and delivering conversational English lessons to the students at the center, with the goal of improving their language proficiency and enabling them to communicate more effectively in English
- You may also choose to assist in coordinating engaging and interactive activities, such as painting workshops, writing workshops, handicraft sessions, as well as filming and photography sessions, that will provide our students with opportunities to explore their creativity and develop new skills.
What makes GO Palestine a great choice?
What advantages does the volunteer program offer?
- English language educational activities are provided to enhance students’ language skills.
- Participate in the Palestinian Center’s educational, social, and community activities to experience Palestinian culture and hospitality.
- The volunteer program includes visits to local sites in Hebron to learn about the city’s rich history.
- Accommodation options include staying with a local host family, at our 8th-floor apartment, or private accommodation (with extra fees).
- Two classes of Arabic lessons (1.5 hours per class) are offered per week, for a total of 3 hours.
- Daily Palestinian breakfast is provided.
- Local visits are organized to various places such as the old city, and participants will 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 completion of the program, participants receive a participation certificate and a recommendation letter.
For whom are our volunteer and internship programs suitable?
Go Palestine provides internship and volunteer programs in Palestine that cater to the needs and goals of every visitor. Our programs are open to people between the ages of 18 to 75 years old, including:
- University and college students, as well as graduates and postgraduates.
- Academic and field researchers.
- Students working on Master’s or PhD dissertations related to Palestine or the Middle East.
- Students seeking internship or volunteer opportunities required by their educational institution. University credit is available.
- Gap year students looking to volunteer or intern in Palestine.
- Students of Arabic literature, Arab studies, and cultural studies related to Arab and Middle Eastern culture.
- Students of Middle Eastern studies, Islamic studies, or relevant fields.
- Anyone eager to learn about different aspects of life in Palestine is welcome to join our programs.
In what location does the program occur?
The program is situated in the center of Palestine, specifically in the city of Hebron, also known as Al-Khalil in Arabic. Hebron is positioned in the southern region of the West Bank and is located 30 km (19 miles) south of Jerusalem. The population of Hebron consists of approximately 300,000 individuals who live in the city, and an additional 500,000 who reside 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 the West Bank Program
250$
American DollarThis includes accommodation, local visits, 3 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
480$
American DollarThis includes accommodation, local visits, 6 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
595$
American DollarThis includes accommodation, local visits, 9 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
690$
American DollarThis includes accommodation, local visits, 12 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
845$
American DollarThis includes accommodation, local visits, 15 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
1070$
American DollarThis includes accommodation, local visits, 18 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
1215$
American DollarThis includes accommodation, local visits, 21 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
1450$
American DollarThis includes accommodation, local visits, 24 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
1630$
American DollarThis includes accommodation, local visits, 27 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
1810$
American DollarThis includes accommodation, local visits, 30 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
1990$
American DollarThis includes accommodation, local visits, 33 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
2250$
American DollarThis includes accommodation, local visits, 36 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
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. |
Payment Options
- To reserve your place in the program, you must sign the participation contract and pay the participation fees. You can pay the fees through Bank Transfer, Western Union, or MoneyGram. If you choose to pay via Western Union or MoneyGram, you can complete the transaction online using your credit card.
- For participation fees that exceed $800, you can pay 40% in advance and the remaining 60% must be paid 45 days prior to the program’s start date. Please note that we cannot accept cash payments, as your participation must be arranged in advance.
How to Obtain a Visa to Enter Palestine
If you are a citizen of an exempted country, you can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport (Tel Aviv) or the Allenby-King Hussein Bridge border crossing. Most Americans and Europeans are issued three-month visas upon arrival and clearing customs, and tourist visas are valid for 90 days.
However, if your home country does not have an exemption agreement with Israel, you must obtain a visa from the Israeli embassy/consulate at home before visiting. Please note that many Arab countries do not accept Israeli stamps on passports, so Israel now issues their visa on a separate small card with a bar code indicating the visa’s time validity. You should keep this visa card with your passport at all times. Check to see whether your native country participates in a visa exemption agreement.
Is Palestine safe?
Palestine is a safe destination for tourists, and visitors can feel secure and comfortable during their time there. Despite the occasional news headlines portraying safety concerns, the Palestinian Authority takes the safety and security of tourists very seriously. They work to ensure that visitors are safe and that their travel experiences are positive.
Furthermore, Go Palestine goes above and beyond to guarantee that visitors have a safe and enjoyable trip to Palestine. They provide excellent services and support throughout the journey, including assistance with safety concerns, ensuring that your trip is memorable and hassle-free.
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
Our Achievements
- Experience in organizing international volunteer and internship programs for over 12 years
- Hosting participants from more than 42 countries worldwide
- Partnerships with over 30 local community organizations in Hebron and Bethlehem
- Staff and teachers participated in international training & workshops in Europe, Middle East, and Asia.
- Partnership with international organizations such as Go Abroad, Go Overseas, Idealist, Hey Success, and Volunteer Match.
What is the application period for the program?
- The Volunteer in the West Bank Program is open for applications year-round, with no deadline. This means that you can apply whenever it’s convenient for you.
- We offer flexible start and end dates for our Volunteer in the West Bank Program, so you can choose a time that suits your schedule.
- Participants in the Volunteer in the West Bank Program can choose to volunteer for a minimum of one week and a maximum of 12 weeks (three months).
| 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 have the option to add more Arabic language instruction hours to their program. Additional hours can be purchased for $20.00 per hour. If you are interested in adding extra Arabic language instruction, please specify this in your application.
Our Partners & Collaborators
Our partners and collaborators play a critical role in supporting and enhancing the work we do at Go Palestine. We work closely with a diverse range of organizations and individuals, including local Palestinian NGOs, academic institutions, and international volunteer agencies, to create meaningful and impactful programs that benefit Palestinian communities.
Our partners and collaborators contribute their expertise, resources, and networks to help us expand our reach, deepen our impact, and build more sustainable and equitable programs. We value these partnerships deeply and are committed to building strong, long-term relationships with all of our partners and collaborators. Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of Palestinians and help create a more just and peaceful future for all
Who is eligible to participate in the Volunteer in the West Bank program?
- The Palestinian Center has welcomed volunteers from various countries, including the USA, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Colombia, France, Japan, China, Chile, Switzerland, Russia, Germany, and many others.
- Our volunteer and internship programs are open to individuals between the ages of 18 to 75, regardless of their nationality or university major (no degree is required).
- Applicants who are under 18 years old can also apply with the consent of their parent or legal guardian, who must fill out and sign a parental consent form
Overview of weekly schedule
At GO Palestine, we aim to provide a diverse, organized and enriching weekly schedule for our volunteers. This includes a range of educational, social and entertaining activities, which will make your time in Palestine a unique and unforgettable experience
Breakfast starts at 9:30 am
Our center’s day commences with a unique Palestinian breakfast at 9:30 am and concludes around 10:15 am. Our breakfast consists of several ingredients, such as Palestinian thyme (Zaatar), labneh, tomato and cucumber slices, falafel, hummus, mortadella, olives, yellow cheese, jam, pita bread, boiled or fried eggs, and French fries. The ingredients change periodically to vary the breakfast.
The Content of the program starts at 10:30
Program content commences at 10:30 am and lasts until 1:30 or 2:00 pm, involving conversational English teaching to Palestinians (school students, university students, and community members).
Lunch Break starts at 2:00 pm
Lunch break commences at 2:00 pm and lasts an hour, allowing you to purchase lunch from a restaurant next to the center. Nearby restaurants offer meals like shawarma, falafel, fried chicken, traditional Palestinian meals like Maqluba, Hebron’s Qidreh, Chicken Mansaf or Lamp Mansaf, and other dishes. Additionally, several nearby supermarkets/malls provide options to purchase ingredients and cook at the center.
Arabic Language Classes (MSA and Levantine/Colloquial)
Weekly, participants receive two one-and-a-half-hour Arabic language classes taught by qualified teachers, held at various times during the day. Participants can choose to learn Modern Standard Arabic, Colloquial Arabic (Ammiya), or both.
Day Trips to Refugee Camps in Bethlehem & Hebron
A weekly day trip to the refugee camps in Hebron and Bethlehem and politically significant areas is organized, offering the opportunity to learn about Palestinian refugees’ circumstances, converse with them, and hear their stories. Departing at 10:45 am from the center, the trip concludes around 2:00 or 3:00 pm.
Local Visits to Learn about the Landmarks of the city of Hebron
Local visits to Hebron’s historical and economic landmarks occur once every two weeks, including visits to the Ibrahimi Mosque, the Old City, Al-Shuhada Street, and factories such as keffiyeh, glass, and ceramic factories.
Prepare & Cook a Traditional Palestinian Dish
Once every two or three weeks, all our volunteers, interns, and Arabic language’ students join together to prepare and cook a traditional Palestinian dish. This includes preparing appetizers, frying vegetables, cooking rice, chopping chicken or meat, and stuffing some vegetables depending on the dish to be cooked that day.
Free Time starts at 16:00 or at 16:30
Once your time at the center is finished, you’ll have free time to spend with fellow international participants and locals you’ve met in Hebron. You can explore the city by going to a nearby café or coffee shop, or relax in one of the many parks. The center is situated on one of the liveliest streets in the city, so there are plenty of options for you to enjoy your evenings.
Combining the Program with Others: Is it Possible?
It is possible to combine this program with other internship or volunteer programs offered by the center. You can choose to complete this program for one week or more, and then add another week or more of a different program. You only need to fill out one application, and we will help you plan 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 can extend their participation period by informing the center coordinator one week prior to the program end.
What can be added to your volunteer program? “EXTRAS“
What is the application process?
- Request the application form by emailing us.
- Fill out and send back the application.
- Inviate you to attend a video interview via Skype/WhatsApp.
- Receive and complete the confirmation form, contract, and invoice for payment.
- Sign the contract and make payment to reserve your place in the program.
- Receive an orientation booklet and travel guide.
- 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 request more information or apply for the program?
To apply for the Volunteer in the West Bank Program, email Mr. Tamimi at [email protected] with “Volunteer in the West Bank Program” in the subject line. In the email, express your interest, ask any questions, and request an application. We will respond to your email shortly.
