The Palestinian Territories: Overview

Calls to prayer, churches and checkpoints.

A microcosm of the Middle East, the Palestinian territories (the West Bank and the Gaza Strip) are littered with sites of historical interest. But visitors may want to think twice before following in the footsteps of the prophets: both the West Bank and Gaza remain hotly contested and unpredictable.

Travel Warning: Dangerous Territories

Following armed clashes in the Gaza strip, the Palestinian territories are effectively split in two, with Gaza controlled by Hamas and the West Bank controlled by Fatah. The situation in both areas remains extremely tense, with ongoing violence, and could rapidly deteriorate further. Travel is still possible in East Jerusalem and other parts of the West Bank such as Bethlehem, Ramallah and Jericho, but extreme caution is advised. Any travel to Gaza should be reconsidered. Check travel advisories and news services before travelling. See Safe Travel for updated government warnings.

severity: Extreme Danger

Fast Facts

Country Full Name

The Palestinian Territories

Population

3,900,000

Currency

Name: New Israeli Shekel
Code: ILS
Symbol: ₪

Electrical Plugs

European plug with two circular metal pins
230V 50Hz

Languages Spoken

Official: Arabic

Time Zones

GMT/UTC +2 

Country Dialing Code

+970

Weights & Measures

Metric

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Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.

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