The Volunteer in a Palestinian Hospital in the West Bank Program (1-12 Weeks) presents a distinctive and meaningful opportunity for individuals worldwide to contribute to the healthcare system in the Palestinian territories. Tailored to span from one to twelve weeks, this program immerses participants in a hands-on experience within a Palestinian hospital environment.
Volunteers and interns encounter a diverse array of medical cases, providing them with invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities within Palestinian healthcare. Whether you are a medical student aiming to enhance your clinical skills or a compassionate individual eager to make a meaningful impact, this program serves as a platform for learning, growth, and positively influencing the lives of patients in need.
Participants in this initiative not only collaborate with dedicated healthcare professionals but also fully immerse themselves in the vibrant cultural and historical fabric of the Palestinian territories. They have the opportunity to actively engage with local communities, delve into the region’s rich history and traditions, and develop a profound awareness of the healthcare challenges faced by Palestinians.
Through their involvement in this program, volunteers and interns not only make a concrete impact on healthcare but also promote cross-cultural understanding and establish enduring connections with the Palestinian people. In essence, the “Volunteer or Intern at a Palestinian Hospital Program” offers a gratifying experience that enables individuals to seamlessly integrate their passion for healthcare with a steadfast commitment to global solidarity and community service.
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 the program?
- Upon successfully completing the program, participants receive a certificate of participation and a recommendation letter.
- This program offers participants the opportunity to work closely with healthcare professionals, gaining hands-on experience across various medical departments.
- Engage in the Palestinian Center’s educational, social, and community activities to immerse yourself in Palestinian culture and hospitality.
- The participant program includes guided visits to local sites in Hebron, providing insights into the city’s rich history.
- Accommodation options comprise staying with a local host family, at our 8th-floor apartment, or private accommodation (with additional fees).
- Two Arabic lessons per week (1.5 hours each) are included, totaling 3 hours of language instruction.
- A daily Palestinian breakfast is provided to participants.
- Day trips to refugee camps in Hebron and Bethlehem, along with visits to areas of political significance, are available.
Challenges and Resilience: The Medical Situation in Palestine
The medical situation in Palestine is marked by significant challenges, largely driven by political instability, limited resources, and ongoing conflicts. The healthcare system is fragmented, with services divided between the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem, each facing unique obstacles.
In the West Bank, restrictions on movement due to checkpoints and the separation barrier hinder access to medical facilities. Meanwhile, Gaza faces severe shortages of essential medicines, medical equipment, and electricity, compounded by years of blockade and recurrent military escalations. The lack of adequate funding further strains hospitals and clinics, impacting the delivery of quality care to patients.
Despite these hardships, healthcare professionals in Palestine continue to demonstrate resilience and dedication. Many work in under-resourced facilities, addressing the health needs of a population affected by physical and psychological trauma. International humanitarian organizations have stepped in to provide support, but the growing demand often outpaces available resources.
The situation is further exacerbated by chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and cancer, alongside the need for specialized care for injured individuals. Addressing the healthcare crisis in Palestine requires not only increased funding and resources but also sustainable solutions to the broader socio-political challenges.
What’s included in the Volunteer in a Palestinian Hospital Program?
- Hospital Placement: Participants are assigned to a Palestinian hospital for volunteering or interning, based on their qualifications and interests. This placement facilitates close collaboration with healthcare professionals, offering hands-on experience across various medical departments.
- Cultural Immersion: Participants frequently have the chance to partake in cultural activities and outings to explore the history, heritage, and local traditions of the West Bank. This enriching experience aids volunteers and interns in developing a deeper appreciation for the region.
- Support and Guidance: Program coordinators or local staff typically provide continuous support and guidance to participants throughout their stay, assisting them in navigating challenges and ensuring a meaningful and impactful experience.
- Language Support: Language assistance, such as Arabic language classes or interpreters, may be accessible to aid volunteers and interns in effective communication with patients and healthcare staff.
Teach English to Palestinian Kids and Youth
Join this impactful program where you’ll have the opportunity to help Palestinian children and youth develop their English conversational skills. As a participant, you’ll lead or assist in group sessions that promote natural, everyday conversations in a relaxed and supportive setting. These sessions focus on practical communication rather than formal classroom instruction.
No prior teaching experience is required—this program welcomes anyone with a passion for making a difference. All necessary materials and resources will be provided, allowing you to focus on inspiring confidence and building connections with the students. This is your chance to contribute to their educational growth while immersing yourself in a rich cultural experience.
What Else Can I Do as a Volunteer Besides Teaching English?
- 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.
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
The program activities kick off promptly at 10:30 in the morning and typically wrap up around 1:30 in the afternoon. During this time, participants will be actively engaged at the hospital, providing invaluable assistance to the medical team in various healthcare tasks and responsibilities.
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.
The fees for The Volunteer in a Palestinian Hospital 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.
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 $20.00 per hour and are designed to provide a deeper understanding of the language and culture. If you wish to include this option, kindly specify it in your application to ensure it is arranged in advance.
| Place of the Volunteer Program | Hebron (H1 – Under Palestinian Control), Palestine |
| Age | 18-75 Years Old |
| Minimum Period | One Week |
| Maximum Period | Three Months – 12 Weeks |
| Volunteering Hours | 4-5 hours a day – 5 days a week |
| Starting/Ending Dates | Flexible – Anytime |
| Application Deadline | No Deadline |
| Program Language | English |
| Days off | Two days including Fridays & Thursdays or Saturdays |
| Arabic Lessons | 3 Hours a Week – Standard Arabic Or Ammiya |
| Educational Degree | Not Required |
| University Credit | Available |
Is it possible to combine this program with another Program?
Yes, this program can be combined with one or more of the other internship or volunteer programs that the center offers. For example, you may choose one week or more to complete this program, and combine this with another week or more of another program.
Can I extend the term of my Program while I’m there?
Yes, participants are allowed to extend their participation period. In this case, volunteers must inform the center coordinator at least one week before the end of the current program.
Things to know before visiting Palestine!
| Living Costs in Palestine | Approx. 50-70$ 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 in a Palestinian Hospital in the West Bank 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 in a Palestinian Hospital in the West Bank 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 in a Palestinian Hospital in the West Bank 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 in a Palestinian Hospital in the West Bank Program 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 “The Volunteer in a Palestinian Hospital in the West Bank 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.