If you’re looking for a meaningful way to work with Palestinian refugees living in challenging conditions, consider joining the Volunteer with Palestinian Refugees program. This program offers a unique opportunity to interact and engage with refugees, and participate in various activities and events that take place in refugee camps located in Hebron. During your stay, you will mainly teach conversational English to the refugees, and make a positive impact on their lives. The program is available for durations ranging from one to twelve weeks.
The primary aim of the Volunteer with Palestinian Refugees program, which spans from one to twelve weeks, is to bring together individuals from around the world with Palestinians, with the goal of raising awareness about the refugee situation in Palestine. By listening to the personal stories of Palestinian refugees, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the impact that the Israeli occupation has on their daily lives.
By taking part in this program, you will be given the opportunity to actively participate in social, educational, and community activities that are designed to benefit the youth, children, and women living in the refugee camps. Despite the challenging circumstances that exist within these camps, participants will quickly learn that the individuals residing there strongly believe that education is the most effective means for them to advocate for their rights.
Volunteer with refugees in Palestine and make a difference
Volunteering with Palestinian refugees can be an incredibly rewarding and eye-opening experience for international volunteers. Not only does it offer the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need, but it can also provide volunteers with a deeper understanding of the complex political and social realities of the region. Working with Palestinian refugees can also help volunteers develop cross-cultural communication skills and empathy, as they are exposed to different worldviews and experiences.
Additionally, volunteering with Palestinian refugees can offer opportunities for personal growth and self-reflection, as volunteers confront their own assumptions and biases. Overall, volunteering with Palestinian refugees can be a transformative experience, offering both practical skills and personal insights that can enrich the lives of volunteers and the communities they serve.
Where will the program be held?
It takes place in the heart of Palestine, in the city of Hebron. Hebron, Al-Khalil in Arabic, is located in the southern part of the West Bank. It is 30 km (19 miles) south of Jerusalem. The population of Hebron is about 300,000 persons who reside in the city, and about another 500,000 who live in the surrounding villages.
How long can I join the program?
Our volunteers can choose to participate in the program for a period of one to 12 weeks. Whatever length of time you choose, we will support you so that you have a great and unique experience at our center and in this wonderful city of Hebron.
Is there a specific day I need to start the program?
No, there is no requirement to begin the program on a specific day of the week. You have the flexibility to start whenever it suits you best, whether that’s Saturday, Monday, Thursday, or any other day. The program is designed to accommodate your schedule, so you can choose a starting day that works best for your routine and preferences. There’s no set starting point or restriction on when you can begin.
What are the advantages of volunteering with Palestinian refugees?
- Experience the hospitality of Palestinians and discover the beauty of the Palestinian culture by interacting with Palestinian families and refugees.
- Daily Palestinian breakfast at the center.
- 3 hours of Arabic Individual lessons per week – Two classes -1,5 hours a class.
- The program provides you with a chance to visit local sites in Hebron and get to know the rich history of the city.
- Accommodation, including either staying with a local host family or at our 8th-floor apartment. Private accommodation is also available with extra fees.
- Day trips to refugee camps in Hebron & Bethlehem and some areas of political importance.
- At the completion of the program, you will get a participation certificate and a recommendation letter.
Who are the Palestinian refugees?
- You might think that Palestinian refugees are only those who live outside of Palestine as a result of the war that occurred in 1948. For instance, you may think of those who live in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, etc.
- However, there are Palestinian refugees who also live in the West Bank and Gaza. There are around 22 camps in the West Bank that have approximately 176,000 refugees and 12 camps in Gaza that have about 478,000 refugees.
How can they be refugees in their own country?
- The fact is that in 1948 when Israeli armed groups started to attack Palestinian towns, villages, and cities, Palestinians were forced to evacuate to safer areas.
- Most of them were displaced either to the West Bank or to Gaza. Palestinians who left their homes and evacuated decided to settle in the West Bank and Gaza temporally, clinging to the promise that they would return to their houses one day. They have been waiting ever since.
Teach English to the Refugees in Palestine
Join this meaningful program where you’ll have the opportunity to help Palestinian refugees improve their conversational English skills. As a participant, you will join group sessions designed to encourage natural, everyday conversations in a friendly and supportive environment. These sessions are casual and focus on real-life communication rather than traditional classroom teaching.
You don’t need any prior teaching experience to take part—this program is open to anyone with a desire to make a difference. All the materials and resources you’ll need will be provided, so you can focus on building connections and fostering confidence in the participants. This is your chance to contribute positively to the lives of refugees while gaining a rewarding cultural experience yourself.
What other activities can I do?
Entertainment activities
- Another aspect of the program will be participating/organizing entertainment activities for Palestinian refugees (optional). These activities might include music, drawing, sports, games, and arts and crafts activities.
- If you are worried that you will be alone in organizing these activities, do not worry. You will not be alone. There will be Palestinian volunteers to help you organize the entertainment activities as well.
Spreading Joy
- You can also purchase toys from a Palestinian shop and distribute them to children in the refugee camp. We will assist you in organizing everything.
- By doing so, you’ll support a Palestinian family by contributing to their shop’s income while bringing smiles to the children of Palestine.
Organise an Educational Event
- As a volunteer, you can also organize workshops, seminars, or lectures on topics you are knowledgeable about. Whether it’s at the University of Hebron or our center, we’ll assist you in making the necessary arrangements.
- We will connect you with the University or organize the event at our center, targeting local Palestinian participants. These workshops can run for one, two, or three days—or any timeframe that fits your schedule. We’ll handle announcements, logistics, and participant coordination, allowing you to focus on preparing your materials.
- Our center is fully equipped with everything you might need, including a screen, projector, whiteboard, laptop, and more. You’ll have all the support required to deliver an impactful and engaging session.
Write for Palestine: Support and Raise Awareness – (Optional)
Writing and publishing articles about Palestine on our website can play a crucial role in raising awareness and helping the region gain recognition on a global scale. By sharing stories, historical insights, and current realities from a compassionate and informed perspective, writers can bridge gaps in understanding.
If you’re not from Palestine, your voice can offer a unique perspective, highlighting the issue from an outsider’s lens while connecting with a broader audience.
Through a collaborative approach, you can also encourage others to share their narratives, research, or reflections. This helps amplify diverse voices and creates a space for dialogue, advocacy, and education.
Learn Arabic While Volunteering in Palestine – Personalized Classes
Volunteering in Palestine offers a unique chance to learn Arabic while actively contributing to the local community. You can choose between Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) or Levantine Arabic, depending on your personal goals and preferences. Classes consist of three weekly hours, split into two sessions, ensuring a balanced learning experience. By combining volunteering with Arabic lessons, you’ll gain cultural insights, practical skills, and valuable community connections.
Modern Standard Arabic (MSA)
Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) is the formal version of Classical Arabic, widely used in official documents, media, and literature across the Arab world. While it’s not commonly spoken in casual conversations, it serves as a universal language for academic and professional contexts.
Palestinian/Shami (Levantine) Arabic
Levantine Arabic, spoken by over 42 million people across Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria, is the primary dialect for everyday communication in the region. Despite regional variations, it is mutually understandable across the Levant, making it an excellent choice for daily conversations and cultural immersion.
Live with a Palestinian Host Family
Staying with a Palestinian host family offers a unique cultural immersion experience. It allows you to learn the language naturally and gain a deeper understanding of Palestinian culture and daily life. You’ll experience their traditions, values, and warm hospitality, making your stay both enriching and memorable. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to build meaningful connections and develop a genuine appreciation for Palestinian life.
Explore Refugee Camps on Day Trips
We offer guided day trips to refugee camps in Hebron and Bethlehem. These visits provide a firsthand look at the lives of refugees, offering insight into their daily challenges and extraordinary resilience. It’s an eye-opening experience that deepens empathy, broadens your perspective, and fosters a greater understanding of their stories and struggles.
City Tours in Hebron
Our program includes guided tours of Hebron, where you’ll explore historical landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods, each with a unique story to tell. You’ll gain insight into both the city’s rich history and contemporary life. Additionally, visits to local factories will give you an understanding of Hebron’s economy and traditional craftsmanship. This comprehensive city tour provides a well-rounded perspective of Hebron’s culture and daily life.
Cook Authentic Palestinian Dishes Together
Join us for a culinary adventure as you learn to prepare authentic Palestinian dishes alongside locals. This hands-on experience is more than just cooking—it’s about sharing stories, building connections, and savoring the unique flavors of Palestinian cuisine. It’s an engaging and heartwarming activity that creates lasting memories and fosters genuine cultural connections.
Explore Beyond Hebron: Two Days Off Weekly
We believe in balancing work and exploration, which is why we offer two days off each week for you to explore other parts of Palestine. Discover iconic cities like Bethlehem, Nablus, Ramallah, Jericho, and Jerusalem. These days are your chance to travel freely, experience diverse cultures, and create unforgettable memories, ensuring a well-rounded and enriching journey beyond Hebron.
200+ Reviews from Past Participants – Gold verified by Go Overseas!
To learn more about the experiences of participants with “Go Palestine,” you can explore reviews on well-known platforms such as Go Overseas and GoAbroad. The organization has consistently received over 200 reviews on both websites combined from volunteers and interns worldwide.
These testimonials showcase the exceptional quality, cultural exchange opportunities, and impactful programs offered by Go Palestine. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, internships, or Arabic language courses, these reviews offer valuable insights into the organization’s dedication to providing meaningful and enriching experiences.
What’s your Weekly routine like?
We at GO Palestine are keen to make your weekly schedule diversified, rich, and organized. Thus, it will contain a number of educational, social, and fun activities that will make your experience in Palestine special and unique.
Breakfast starts at 9:30 am
The day at our center starts with a special Palestinian breakfast at 9:30 in the morning and ends at approximately 10:15. Our breakfast contains a number of ingredients, including 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 are changed (among the mentioned ingredients) from time to time to diversify the breakfast.
The Content of the program starts at 10:30
The content of your program begins at 10:30 in the morning and continues until 1:30 or 2:00 in the afternoon. This includes teaching conversational English to Palestinian refugees and local residents (school students, university students, and community members). This differs depending on the program you are joining, please read the program’s description.
Lunch Break starts at 2:00 pm
At two o’clock in the afternoon begins the lunch break, which lasts for an entire hour. You can buy lunch from a restaurant next to the center. There are a number of restaurants nearby, which provide meals such as shawarma, falafel, and fried chicken as well as traditional Palestinian meals such as Maqluba, Hebron’s Qidreh, Chicken Mansaf or Lamp Mansaf, and other meals. There are also a number of supermarkets/malls nearby where you can buy what you need and cook yourself in the center.
Arabic Language Classes (MSA and Levantine/Colloquial)
Weekly, you will get two Arabic language classes for an hour and a half each. These classes are taught by one of our skilled/qualified teachers. Arabic language classes are held at different times, either in the morning or, in most cases, in the afternoon. The student can choose whether to study Modern Standard Arabic, Colloquial Arabic (Ammiya), or both.
Day Trips to Refugee Camps in Bethlehem & Hebron
Once every week, a day trip is organized to the refugee camps in Hebron and Bethlehem, as well as to areas of political importance whenever the opportunity arises. These trips will give you the opportunity to learn about the conditions of the Palestinian refugees, talk to them and learn their stories. These trips depart at 10:45 am from the center and end approx. at 2:00 or 3:00 in the afternoon.
Local Visits to Learn about the Landmarks of the city of Hebron
Once every two weeks, local visits are organized to the historical and economic landmarks of the city of Hebron. This includes a visit to the Ibrahimi Mosque, the Old City, and Al-Shuhada Street as well as visiting a number of factories in the city, 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
After your time in the center is over, you have free time when you can hang out with other international participants and/or locals you met during your stay in Hebron by going to a café or coffee shop or going to a park and enjoying your time in the evening. There are many cafés and parks not far from the center, as the center is located on one of the most lively streets in the city.
Volunteer with Palestinian Refugees Program’s Fees
270$
American DollarThis package includes accommodation, city tours, 3 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, transportation to refugee camps, and a certificate of participation.
520$
American DollarThis package includes accommodation, city tours, 6 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, transportation to refugee camps, and a certificate of participation.
655$
American DollarThis package includes accommodation, city tours, 9 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, transportation to refugee camps, and a certificate of participation.
770$
American DollarThis package includes accommodation, city tours, 12 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, transportation to refugee camps, and a certificate of participation.
945$
American DollarThis package includes accommodation, city tours, 15 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, transportation to refugee camps, and a certificate of participation.
1190$
American DollarThis package includes accommodation, city tours, 18 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, transportation to refugee camps, and a certificate of participation.
1355$
American DollarThis package includes accommodation, city tours, 21 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, transportation to refugee camps, and a certificate of participation.
1610$
American DollarThis package includes accommodation, city tours, 24 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, transportation to refugee camps, and a certificate of participation.
1810$
American DollarThis package includes accommodation, city tours, 27 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, transportation to refugee camps, and a certificate of participation.
2010$
American DollarThis package includes accommodation, city tours, 30 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, transportation to refugee camps, and a certificate of participation.
2210$
American DollarThis package includes accommodation, city tours, 33 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, transportation to refugee camps, and a certificate of participation.
2450$
American DollarThis package includes accommodation, city tours, 36 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, transportation to refugee camps, and a certificate of participation.
What does the Participation Fee include?
| Accommodation | Host family or at our 8th-floor apartment Private accommodation is available with extra fees |
| Arabic Lessons | 3 Hours a Week – Two Classes/ 1,5 hours of Arabic lessons each |
| Meals | Daily Palestinian breakfast |
| Day Trips | To refugees camps in Hebron & Bethlehem & some areas of political importance |
| Sightseeings | Historical & politically important places in the city of Hebron |
| Certificate | Certificate of participation & recommendation letter at the end of the program |
When should you arrive to begin your program?
We suggest arriving in Palestine a day before your program starts to help you settle in and prepare for your experience. You are also welcome to stay an extra day after the program ends to ensure a relaxed and smooth departure.
What visa do you need to volunteer in Palestine?
To volunteer in Palestine, you will need an Israeli tourist visa that allows a stay of up to 3 months. Acquiring a volunteer visa directly in Palestine can be difficult.
Visa Requirements for Palestine
If you’re from a country with a visa exemption agreement with Israel, you can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport (Tel Aviv) or the Allenby-King Hussein Bridge crossing. Citizens of countries like the United States and European nations are typically granted a three-month visa valid for 90 days.
If your home country does not have an exemption agreement with Israel, you must apply for a visa from the Israeli embassy or consulate in your home country before visiting. Israel now issues visas on a separate card with a barcode, avoiding passport stamps as some Arab countries do not accept Israeli passport stamps. Ensure you confirm whether your country participates in a visa exemption agreement.
What if your passport isn’t suitable for a tourist visa?
Individuals from countries like Pakistan and India must obtain a visa from the Israeli embassy in their home country to volunteer in Palestine. This can be a challenging process, as Israel controls all entry points, making it a prerequisite to secure the visa before applying for the volunteer program.
Is the West Bank safe for volunteering?
Yes, the West Bank is generally safe for volunteering. Most incidents or conflicts tend to occur in areas far from the main city centers where most volunteer programs are held. Cities such as Hebron, Bethlehem, and Ramallah maintain a stable and secure environment for volunteers.
The local community is often welcoming and supportive, which enhances the overall sense of safety. We do recommend that participants stay updated on local news and follow any guidance from their hosts to ensure personal safety.
Is prior experience a requirement for volunteering in Palestine?
No, prior experience is not required to volunteer in Palestine. Our programs are open to individuals of all backgrounds, whether or not you have previous volunteering experience. We focus on creating a supportive environment where everyone can contribute, learn, and make a positive impact.
What matters most to us is your enthusiasm and commitment. Our team is dedicated to guiding and supporting you throughout your volunteer journey, whether you’re an experienced volunteer or this is your first time. We welcome you to join us in making a positive difference in this inspiring region.
Do I need to know how to speak Arabic?
No, volunteers are not required to know Arabic before joining. The center will provide 3 hours of Arabic lessons each week with one of our qualified teachers. Participants can choose to study Modern Standard Arabic (Fusha) or Spoken Arabic (Ammiya) once they begin their program.
Can I add more Arabic hours to my program?
Volunteers have the option to add extra Arabic language lessons to their program. These additional lessons are available at a cost of $20.00 per hour and are designed to offer a more in-depth understanding of the language and culture. If you wish to add extra lessons, please mention this in your application so we can arrange it in advance.
| Place of the Volunteer with Palestinian Refugees Program | Hebron (H1 – Under Palestinian Control), Palestine |
| Age | 18-75 Years Old |
| Minimum Period | One Week |
| Maximum Period | Three Months – 12 Weeks |
| Volunteering Hours | 4-5 hours a day – 5 days a week |
| Starting/Ending Dates | Flexible – Anytime |
| Application Deadline | No Deadline |
| Program Language | English |
| Days off | Two days including Fridays & Thursdays or Saturdays |
| Arabic Lessons | 3 Hours a Week – Standard Arabic Or Ammiya |
| Educational Degree | Not Required |
| University Credit | Available |
Is it possible to combine this program with another program?
Yes, you can combine this program with one or more of the other internship or volunteer programs offered by the center. For example, you can spend one week or more completing this program and then combine it with additional weeks of another program.
Can I extend the term of my program while I’m there?
Yes, it is possible to extend your program while you’re in Palestine. To do so, you must inform the center coordinator at least one week before the end of your current program to make the necessary arrangements.
Things to know before visiting Palestine!
| Living Costs in Palestine | Approx. 50-70$ 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 |
The Documents you’ll receive from us!
When you join us, you’ll receive a comprehensive set of documents to ensure a smooth and well-informed experience. Our travel guide will include detailed instructions on how to reach us in Hebron, along with the best available transportation options.
In addition, you’ll receive a weekly schedule booklet, outlining the activities and events planned for each day, helping you make the most of your time. To assist you in getting acquainted with the local culture and surroundings, we’ll also provide an orientation booklet. This will offer valuable insights into life in Hebron, giving you a deeper understanding of the city and its unique atmosphere.
What can be added to your program? “Add-ons“
- Private apartment available as an add-on for $200 per week or $600–$700 per month.
Would you like to join an online Arabic course before joining us?
Learning Arabic before your arrival can greatly enhance your experience in Palestine. By familiarizing yourself with basic Arabic phrases and cultural expressions, you’ll feel more confident communicating with locals, navigating daily life, and immersing yourself in the rich Palestinian culture.
We’re excited to offer you the chance to start this journey with a free trial, which includes your first class completely free! This is a great opportunity to get a taste of the Arabic language and see how it can enrich your time in Palestine. Click Here for more information!
Who can apply to the Volunteer with Palestinian Refugees program?
- The Palestinian Center has hosted people who have come from a myriad of countries, such as the USA, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Colombia, France, Japan, China, Chile, Switzerland, Russia, Germany, and many more.
- The Volunteer with Palestinian Refugees program is open to all who are between 18 – 75 years old. All people from all countries and majors are welcome to join this program.
- Those who are younger than 18 years old can also apply but with one condition. One of your parents has to fill out and sign a parental consent form.
When will I be able to apply to the Program?
- Our Volunteer program has no deadline, which means that you can apply to the program year-round.
- You are allowed to choose when you want to start and end the program.
- The minimum period of participation in the volunteer program is one week and the maximum amount of time you can volunteer is 12 weeks/three months.
Can I join the program with university funding?
Yes, you can participate in the program with university funding. We will help you complete all necessary paperwork, including providing an invitation letter, a contract, and any other required documents. However, please note that we do not provide any funding, as our programs are supported by the fees from international participants.
Flexible Scheduling with a One-Year Adjustment Window
We understand that convenience is essential when planning your trip to Palestine. That’s why we offer a full year of flexibility to adjust the start of your program and complete freedom in choosing its timing.
Whether you want to begin earlier, extend your stay, or finish sooner, we’re here to meet your needs. Your experience is our top priority, and we’re dedicated to making your journey smooth, personalized, and stress-free.
How do I register or obtain more information?
Please email Mr.Tamimi, at [email protected]. Please type “The Volunteer with Palestinian Refugees Program” in the subject line. In the body of the email, ask any questions you may have, and request an application. Very shortly, we will reply to you.
What is the procedure for applying?
| Step 1 | Send us an email asking for the application form. |
| Step 2 | You complete the online application and send it in. |
| Step 3 | We invite you to participate in an interview via WhatsApp, Zoom, Google Meet (video or voice call). |
| Step 4 | We will send you a confirmation form which you fill out and return to us. |
| Step 5 | We send you the Invitation Letter, the contract and the invoice. |
| Step 6 | You will sign the contract and make payment in order to reserve your place in the program. |
| Step 7 | We will send you an orientation booklet and travel guide to Palestine. |
Fast-Track Application – Within 3 days!
If you’re looking to join us next week or need to make arrangements on short notice, our fast-track application process is here to help. This efficient option is designed to save you time and make it simple for you to get started without delay.
Through this process, you can easily book your flight, submit your application, participate in a personalized interview, pay the required fees, and confirm your spot—all within three days. Whether you’re in a hurry or excited to start, our fast-track system ensures a seamless and efficient onboarding experience.
