Israel is a fascinating country with a mix of ancient and modern traditions. As a traveler, understanding local customs and etiquette will help you feel more comfortable and show respect to the people you meet. It’s important to be mindful of both cultural and religious norms here, as they play a big role in everyday life.
Greetings
The way Israelis greet each other can vary depending on the situation. It’s common to say “Shalom”, which means “peace” and is used for both hello and goodbye. In more formal or business settings, people might shake hands. If you’re meeting someone religious, keep in mind that certain individuals don’t engage in physical contact with members of the opposite sex due to religious beliefs. It’s polite to wait and see how they greet you first.
Hugging and kissing are common among close friends or family members. If you’re already familiar with someone, they might greet you with a kiss on the cheek or a hug. However, don’t offer a hug or cheek kiss unless the other person initiates it.
Dress Code
Dress codes in Israel can vary widely depending on where you are. In cities like Tel Aviv, you’ll find a more casual, modern style. Shorts, t-shirts, and sandals are common, even in restaurants. However, in more conservative areas or religious neighborhoods, modest dress is expected. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites like the Western Wall or churches.
When visiting synagogues or mosques, men may be required to wear a kippah (a small cap) or head covering, which is often provided at the entrance. Women should bring a scarf or shawl to cover their heads if needed. It’s always a good idea to carry a scarf or shawl with you in case you need to dress more modestly at certain locations.
Behavior in Religious and Holy Sites
Jewish Sites
At Jewish holy sites like the Western Wall (also known as the Kotel), dress modestly. Men should wear a kippah, and women should wear modest clothing, covering their shoulders and knees. Avoid taking selfies or loud conversations near the wall, as people are often praying. Respect any separate sections for men and women as well.
Christian Sites
In Christian churches, especially in Jerusalem, modest dress is also required. Avoid wearing sleeveless tops or short skirts. Even if the dress code isn’t strictly enforced, it’s respectful to follow it. Many churches are quiet places of worship, so keep your voice down, avoid using flash photography, and refrain from taking photos during services.
Muslim Sites
If you’re planning to visit Islamic sites like the Al-Aqsa Mosque, dress codes are quite strict. Both men and women must be fully covered. Women should avoid tight clothing and must cover their hair with a scarf or shawl. Shoes must be removed before entering the mosque. As with other holy sites, it’s respectful to keep noise to a minimum.
Respect for Religious Practices
Israel observes a mix of religious traditions, especially on the Sabbath (Shabbat) and during holidays. Shabbat is the Jewish day of rest, beginning on Friday at sundown until Saturday evening. Many businesses, including public transport, restaurants, and shops, in cities like Jerusalem may close during Shabbat. Tel Aviv, however, tends to operate more casually, and you’ll find plenty of places open on Shabbat.
During Shabbat, avoid activities that involve work, such as driving, using phones, or asking locals (especially in religious neighborhoods) for assistance with things like taking pictures or finding directions. If staying in a religious hotel, be mindful of the use of elevator buttons, as some Shabbat elevators are programmed to stop on every floor to avoid pushing buttons.
Public Behavior
Israelis are generally quite direct and may come across as blunt. Don’t take it personally. It’s part of the culture and not meant to be rude. People will often speak their minds and express their opinions freely. If you’re used to subtle or indirect communication, it might feel a bit intense, but it’s their way of being honest.
When it comes to personal space, Israel can feel more “close-knit” than in other parts of the world. People will stand closer to each other in public spaces or in lines. This is common, so don’t take offense if someone seems to be standing too close. It’s not considered rude.
Dining Etiquette
When eating out, tipping is standard practice in Israel. It’s customary to leave around 10-15% of the bill as a tip. Some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, so check before adding a tip. It’s also common to share dishes among friends or family, especially in casual dining settings like local markets or street food stalls, where food is often served in large portions.
If invited to someone’s home for a meal, it’s polite to bring a small gift. This could be a bottle of wine or dessert. Check beforehand if there are any dietary rules your host follows, such as keeping kosher. Some families may observe specific dietary restrictions, and it’s considerate to bring something that fits within those guidelines.
Using Hebrew and Arabic
Hebrew and Arabic are the two official languages of Israel. Most Israelis speak at least basic English, especially in tourist areas, so language should not be a big barrier. However, locals appreciate it when visitors make an effort to use Hebrew or Arabic, even if it’s just for basic phrases like “Shalom” (hello) or “Toda” (thank you).
In Arab-majority areas, such as in East Jerusalem or certain parts of the Galilee, Arabic is often the main language spoken. Learning a few key phrases can help bridge cultural gaps and show respect for the local communities.
Shopping and Bargaining
Bargaining is common in many open-air markets (called “shuks”). For example, in the Carmel Market in Tel Aviv or the Mahane Yehuda Market in Jerusalem, it’s expected that you negotiate for a lower price, especially for items like souvenirs or clothing. However, bargaining isn’t usually done in supermarkets or stores with fixed prices.
When negotiating, be polite, friendly, and don’t be afraid to walk away if you’re not happy with the price. Many vendors enjoy the interaction, so keep things lighthearted. It’s also a good rule of thumb to know your prices beforehand, so you’ll know when you’re getting a good deal.
Respect for Security Measures
Israel is known for strict security. You will likely encounter security checks at shopping malls, bus stations, and big events. While it might seem unusual if you’re not used to it, it’s normal here. Follow the instructions given by security personnel, and don’t make jokes about security, weapons, or politics during these checks. It’s taken very seriously.
When traveling to sensitive areas, such as borders or near the West Bank, expect to come across multiple checkpoints. Always carry your identification, especially your passport, and be cooperative with any inquiries from authorities.
Political Sensitivities
Politics is a hot topic in Israel. People often have strong opinions, and it can be tempting to jump into conversations about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict or the country’s political situation. However, it’s a delicate subject, and it’s best to be an observer rather than weighing in, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the complexities of the issue. If you do engage, listen respectfully and be mindful of different perspectives.
Avoid making assumptions about anyone’s political or religious views based on their appearance. Israelis come from a wide range of backgrounds, and it’s better not to stereotype or make generalizations.
Final Thoughts
Israel is a country rich in history, culture, and diversity. By following local customs and being aware of cultural practices, you’ll likely have an even more rewarding experience. As always, kindness and respect go a long way. Asking questions if you’re unsure about something shows that you care about cultural differences and want to learn.
Enjoy your time in Israel, and remember that the best experiences come from building genuine connections with the people and places you encounter!
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