The Volunteer with refugees in Palestine program (1-12 Week) is an incredibly rewarding experience. By engaging with Palestinian refugees, you can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges they face and help them build a better future for Palestinian kids and youth in these camps.
As a volunteer with the refugees in Palestine in this program, you will have the chance to engage in social, educational, and community activities. These activities target youth and children, as well as women who live in the refugee camps. Despite the situation in these camps, participants in this program will discover that people are still believing that education is the only way for them to fight for their rights.
You can choose to volunteer from one week to three months, depending on your availability and commitment level. During your stay, you will have the opportunity to learn Arabic, interact with local Palestinians and get to know their culture and customs. You may also have the chance to stay with a host family while volunteering, allowing you to gain an even deeper insight into their lives.
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 Palestinian Refugees
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)
Write and publish 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 someone who is not from Palestine, your voice can provide a unique angle, highlighting the issue from an outsider’s lens while connecting with a broader audience.
Through a collaborative approach, you can also encourage others visiting your platform to contribute their narratives, research, or reflections, amplifying diverse voices and creating a space for dialogue, advocacy, and education.
Learn Arabic while Volunteering in Palestine – Individual Classes
Volunteering in Palestine is a great way to learn the Arabic language and make a difference at the same time. You can choose to learn Modern Standard Arabic or Levantine Arabic, depending on your needs and interests. You will have three weekly hours of Arabic, divided into two classes a week. By volunteering while learning Arabic, you will gain valuable experience while helping out in your community.
- Modern Standard Arabic (MSA):
Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) is the standardized version of Classical Arabic, used across the Arab world for official communication, media, and literature. While not spoken in daily life, it serves as a unifying language for formal and academic purposes.
- Palestinian/Shami (Levantine) Arabic:
Levantine Arabic, spoken by over 42 million people in Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria, is a widely used dialect for daily communication. It features regional variations but remains mutually intelligible across the Levant.
Live with a Palestinian Host Family
Staying with a Palestinian family is a unique opportunity. It helps you learn the language and understand the culture and daily life of your hosts. You’ll get a window into their traditions, values, and hospitality, which enriches your learning experience. It’s a chance to build connections and appreciate Palestinian life even more.
Explore Refugee Camps on Day Trips
We organize day trips to refugee camps in Hebron and Bethlehem. These trips let you see the lives of refugees up close. Spending time in these camps helps you understand their challenges and resilience. It’s an eye-opening experience that broadens your horizons, builds empathy, and deepens your understanding of these locations.
City Tours in Hebron
Our program includes day tours in Hebron. You’ll explore key areas, each with a unique story. These tours let you learn about the city’s history and contemporary life. You’ll also visit local factories to understand the local economy and craftsmanship. This offers a comprehensive experience, helping you appreciate the culture and life in Hebron.
Cook Authentic Palestinian Dishes Together
In our program, you’ll have a culinary adventure. You’ll actively participate in preparing authentic Palestinian dishes. It’s a chance to learn and bond over cooking while enjoying the flavors of the region. This experience helps you connect with the community and create lasting memories.
Explore Beyond Hebron: Two Days Off Weekly
We understand the importance of exploring the region. That’s why we give you two days off each week to venture beyond Hebron. You can discover other enchanting places in Palestine, such as Bethlehem, Nablus, Ramallah, Jericho, and Jerusalem. These days off are designed to give you the freedom to travel, learn, and create memories beyond Hebron, ensuring a well-rounded and enriching experience.
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 positive reviews on both websites combined from volunteers and interns worldwide.
These testimonials highlight the exceptional quality, cultural exchange opportunities, and impactful programs offered by Go Palestine. Whether you’re considering volunteering, internships, or Arabic language courses, these reviews provide valuable insights into the organization’s commitment to delivering 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 Refugees in Palestine 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 recommend arriving in Palestine one day prior to your selected start date to settle in and prepare for the experience. Additionally, you are welcome to stay an extra day after the program concludes to ensure a smooth and relaxed departure.
What visa do you need to volunteer in Palestine?
To volunteer in Palestine, obtaining an Israeli tourist visa allowing a stay of up to 3 months is necessary. Acquiring a volunteer visa directly in Palestine can be challenging.
Visa Requirements for Palestine
If you belong to a country with an exemption agreement with Israel, you can acquire a tourist visa upon arriving at either Ben Gurion Airport (Tel Aviv) or the Allenby-King Hussein Bridge border crossing. Typically, citizens from countries like the United States and European nations are granted three-month visas upon arrival, valid for a 90-day period.
However, if your home country does not have an exemption agreement with Israel, it is essential to obtain a visa from the Israeli embassy or consulate in your home country before your visit. It’s worth noting that Israel now issues visas on a separate card containing a barcode to avoid passport stamps, as some Arab countries do not accept Israeli passport stamps. Ensure to verify whether your native country participates in a visa exemption agreement.
What if your passport isn’t suitable for a tourist visa?
Regrettably, individuals from countries such as Pakistan and India must obtain a visa from the Israeli embassy in their respective countries if they wish to volunteer in Palestine. This process can be particularly challenging as Israel maintains control over all entry points. Consequently, securing a visa becomes a prerequisite even before initiating the volunteer application.
Is the West Bank safe for volunteering?
Yes, the West Bank is relatively safe for volunteering. Most incidents or conflicts occur in areas far from the main city centers where volunteering programs typically take place. Cities like Hebron, Bethlehem, and Ramallah, where most volunteering programs are hosted, generally maintain a stable and safe environment.
Volunteers often find the local community welcoming and supportive, which adds to the overall feeling of security. Nevertheless, we encourage participants to stay updated on local news and follow any guidance provided by their hosts to ensure their safety.
Is prior experience a requirement for volunteering in Palestine?
Volunteering in Palestine does not require prior experience. Our volunteer programs are inclusive and cater to individuals from diverse backgrounds, irrespective of whether they have any previous experience. Our emphasis is on creating a supportive environment that allows everyone to contribute, learn, and make a meaningful impact, regardless of their prior expertise.
What matters most to us is your enthusiasm and dedication. Our team is committed to guiding and supporting you throughout your volunteer journey in Palestine. Whether you are an experienced volunteer or someone eager to embark on their first volunteering experience, we invite you to join us in making a positive difference in this remarkable region.
Do I need to know how to speak Arabic?
No, volunteers are not obligated to know Arabic. The center will provide you with 3 hours of Arabic lessons each week with one of our teachers. The participant can choose either to study Modern Standard Arabic (Fusha) or Spoken Arabic Language (known as Ammyia) once they start their program.
Can I add more Arabic hours to my hours in the program?
Volunteers have the opportunity to enhance their experience by adding extra Arabic language instruction to their program. These supplementary lessons are available at a cost of $20.00 per hour and are designed to provide a deeper understanding of the language and culture. If you wish to include this option, kindly specify it in your application to ensure it is arranged in advance.
| Place of Volunteer with Refugees in Palestine Program | Hebron (H1 – Under Palestinian Control), Palestine |
| Age | 18-75 Years Old |
| Minimum Period of Volunteer with Refugees in Palestine | One Week |
| Maximum Period of Volunteer with Refugees in Palestine | Three Months – 12 Weeks |
| Volunteering Hours | 4-5 hours a day – 5 days a week |
| Starting/Ending Dates | Flexible – Anytime |
| Application Deadline | No Deadline |
| Program Language | English |
| Days off | Two days including Fridays & Thursdays or Saturdays |
| Arabic Lessons | 3 Hours a Week – Standard Arabic Or Ammiya |
| Educational Degree | Not Required |
| University Credit | Available |
Is it possible to combine this program with another Program?
Yes, this program can be combined with one or more of the other internship or volunteer programs that the center offers. For example, you may choose one week or more to complete this program, and combine this with another week or more of another program.
Can I extend the term of my Program while I’m there?
Yes, participants are allowed to extend their participation period. In this case, volunteers must inform the center coordinator at least one week before the end of the current program.
Things to know before visiting Palestine!
| Living Costs in Palestine | Approx. 50-70$ 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 informed experience. Our travel guide will provide detailed instructions on how to reach us in Hebron, including the best transportation options available.
In addition, we’ll give you a weekly schedule booklet, outlining the activities and events planned for each day, so you can make the most of your time. To help you get acquainted with the local culture and surroundings, you’ll also receive an orientation booklet that offers 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 significantly 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 refugees in Palestine 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 Refugees in Palestine 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?
- The Volunteer with Palestinian Refugees 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 volunteering with refugees in Palestine is one week and the maximum amount of time you can volunteer is 12 weeks/three months.
Can I join the program through funding from the university?
Yes, you can join the program with funding from the university. We will assist you in completing all the necessary paperwork, including providing an invitation letter, a contract, and any other required documents. However, please be aware that we do not offer any funding, as our operations are supported by fees from the international programs we run.
Flexible Scheduling with a One-Year Adjustment Window
We understand that convenience is key when planning your trip to Palestine. That’s why we provide a full year to adjust the start of your program and complete flexibility with its timing.
Whether you want to start earlier, extend your stay, or finish sooner, we’re here to adapt to your needs. Your experience is our 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 info@govolunteerinpalestine.org. Please type “Volunteer with Refugees in Palestine 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, we’ve got you covered with our convenient fast-track application process. This streamlined option is designed to save you time and make it easy for you to get started.
With this process, you can quickly book your flight, submit your application, attend a personalized interview, pay the necessary fees, and secure your place—all within just three days. Whether you’re in a hurry or simply excited to begin, our fast-track system ensures a smooth and efficient onboarding experience.