Israel Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Israel.
Healthcare System
Israel has a world-class universal healthcare system with modern facilities, advanced medical technology, and highly trained professionals. The system is among the best in the Middle East and comparable to Western European standards.
Hospitals
Major hospitals serving tourists include Hadassah Medical Center and Shaare Zedek in Jerusalem, Ichilov (Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center) and Sheba Medical Center in Tel Aviv area. Private clinics and emergency rooms are widely available. Tourists can receive emergency treatment regardless of insurance status, though payment is required.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (beit merkachat) are widely available in cities and towns. Many medications available over-the-counter elsewhere may require prescriptions. Pharmacists often speak English and can provide basic medical advice. Some pharmacies operate on rotation for night and Shabbat service (duty pharmacies).
Insurance
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is strongly recommended. While emergency care is accessible, medical treatment can be expensive for non-residents. Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.
Healthcare Tips
- Carry copies of prescriptions with generic drug names, as brand names may differ
- Check pharmacy rotation schedules (mishmeret) for after-hours service
- Tap water is safe to drink throughout Israel
- Sun protection is essential; UV levels are high year-round
- Terem Emergency Medical Centers provide urgent care without hospital wait times
- Keep your travel insurance details and embassy contact information readily accessible
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in crowded tourist areas, markets, and public transportation, though rates are relatively low compared to many European cities.
While rare in tourist areas, security incidents including rocket fire (mainly near Gaza border), isolated stabbing or vehicle attacks, and civil unrest can occur. The security situation can change rapidly.
Israel has relatively high rates of traffic accidents. Driving can be aggressive, and pedestrians need to be cautious as drivers don't always yield at crosswalks.
Summer temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F), particularly in Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, and southern regions. Dehydration and heat stroke are real risks.
Mediterranean currents can be strong, and drowning incidents occur. Jellyfish are common in summer months. Dead Sea poses unique risks due to extreme salinity.
Tourist-focused scams and overcharging occur, particularly in markets and by unlicensed taxi drivers, though less common than in many tourist destinations.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Unlicensed taxi drivers or those refusing to use meters charge inflated rates, particularly from Ben Gurion Airport or to tourists in Jerusalem's Old City. Some claim meters are broken.
Some exchange offices in tourist areas offer poor rates or use confusing calculations to shortchange tourists. Rates may be advertised for large amounts only.
Unlicensed guides approach tourists at religious sites offering tours at inflated prices or taking them to shops where they receive commissions.
Some restaurants add items you didn't order, charge for bread/appetizers that seemed complimentary, or include unexpected service charges.
Aggressive sales tactics in Old City shops, where shopkeepers may pressure tourists, quote inflated initial prices, or use emotional manipulation.
People claiming to collect for charitable causes, particularly in Jerusalem, may not be legitimate organizations.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Security Awareness
- Download the Red Alert (Tzeva Adom) app for rocket warning notifications
- Familiarize yourself with the location of bomb shelters (miklat) in your accommodation
- Don't leave bags unattended - security personnel may destroy suspicious packages
- Expect security checks at malls, train stations, and public buildings; cooperate fully
- Keep passport and important documents in hotel safe, carry copies
- Register with your embassy's travel registration system
- Follow @IsraelMFA and local news sources on social media for updates
- If sirens sound, seek shelter immediately (you have 15-90 seconds depending on location)
Cultural Sensitivity
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites (covered shoulders and knees)
- Be aware of Shabbat (Friday sunset to Saturday sunset) - many services close, including public transport in most areas
- Remove shoes when entering mosques; women should cover hair
- Ask permission before photographing people, especially in religious areas
- Avoid political discussions and displays of political symbols
- Be respectful at holy sites - avoid loud conversations and inappropriate behavior
- Learn a few basic Hebrew and Arabic phrases - locals appreciate the effort
Transportation Safety
- Use licensed white taxis with yellow roof signs or ride-sharing apps
- Public transportation is excellent and safe; get a Rav Kav card for convenience
- Trains and buses don't operate during Shabbat (except Haifa)
- If driving, be defensive - Israeli drivers can be aggressive
- Don't pick up hitchhikers or accept rides from strangers
- Keep car doors locked and valuables out of sight when driving
- Use GPS navigation; roads are well-marked but can be confusing
Money and Valuables
- Use ATMs inside banks during business hours when possible
- Credit cards widely accepted; Visa and Mastercard most common
- Keep emergency cash in multiple locations
- Be discreet when using ATMs; shield PIN entry
- Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks
- Keep small bills for markets and small vendors
- Tipping is customary: 10-15% in restaurants, round up for taxis
Food and Water Safety
- Tap water is safe to drink throughout Israel
- Food safety standards are high; street food is generally safe
- Look for kosher certification for additional food safety assurance
- Wash fruits and vegetables, or peel them
- Be cautious with seafood in summer months
- Stay hydrated - drink more water than you think you need
- Try local cuisine but start gradually if you have a sensitive stomach
Communication
- Purchase a local SIM card for reliable communication and data
- WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces
- Download offline maps before traveling to remote areas
- Keep your phone charged; carry a power bank
- Emergency services operators generally speak English
- Save important numbers in your phone before arrival
- WhatsApp is extremely popular for communication
Health Precautions
- Bring sufficient prescription medications with documentation
- Use high SPF sunscreen and reapply frequently
- Wear a hat and sunglasses to prevent sun damage
- Stay in shade during peak sun hours
- No special vaccinations required for most travelers
- Travel insurance with medical coverage is essential
- Pharmacies can help with minor ailments; pharmacists are knowledgeable
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Israel is generally safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. Tel Aviv is particularly progressive and women-friendly. However, cultural sensitivity is important, especially in religious areas. Harassment is uncommon but can occur. Women serve in the Israeli military and are visible in all professional sectors, contributing to generally egalitarian attitudes in secular areas.
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and neighborhoods (covered shoulders, knees, and chest)
- In secular areas like Tel Aviv, dress codes are relaxed and similar to Western countries
- Be aware that gender segregation exists on some bus lines serving ultra-Orthodox areas
- Solo women may receive unwanted attention in markets or tourist areas; polite but firm refusal is usually effective
- Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas, though Tel Aviv is generally safe
- Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps rather than accepting rides from strangers
- Women-only accommodations are available in Jerusalem and other cities
- The Western Wall has separate sections for men and women
- Trust your instincts; Israelis are generally helpful if you feel uncomfortable
- Beach culture in Tel Aviv is liberal; in Eilat and other areas, bikinis are normal
- Some beaches have women-only days or sections
- Carry a scarf to cover shoulders/head when visiting religious sites
- Israeli women are generally assertive; don't hesitate to be direct if bothered
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Israel has the most progressive LGBTQ+ rights in the Middle East. Homosexuality is legal, anti-discrimination laws exist, same-sex couples have many (though not all) rights, and same-sex marriages performed abroad are recognized. Tel Aviv is considered one of the world's most gay-friendly cities.
- Tel Aviv is extremely LGBTQ+-friendly with vibrant nightlife, Pride celebrations, and open culture
- Exercise discretion in religious areas, including Jerusalem's Old City and ultra-Orthodox neighborhoods
- Arab areas and Palestinian territories are generally not accepting; discretion strongly advised
- Hilton Beach in Tel Aviv is a popular LGBTQ+ beach area
- Many hotels in Tel Aviv and major cities are LGBTQ+-friendly
- Jerusalem has a growing but smaller LGBTQ+ scene compared to Tel Aviv
- Tel Aviv Pride (June) is a major international event attracting thousands
- Same-sex couples can share hotel rooms without issues in major cities
- LGBTQ+-specific travel agencies and tours are available
- The Aguda (Israel's LGBTQ+ Task Force) offers resources and support
- While laws are progressive, religious influence means full equality hasn't been achieved
- Be aware that attitudes can vary greatly within short distances due to diverse communities
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for visiting Israel. Medical care is excellent but expensive for non-residents, and the security situation means evacuation coverage is prudent. Standard policies may exclude coverage for areas under travel advisories or conflict-related incidents, so read policy details carefully and consider specialized coverage.
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