Israel

Most visitors to Israel do not experience safety and security problems, however, the security situation can change rapidly at any time. Travellers are advised to carry their passports with them at all times and register with their embassy in Tel Aviv. Dual citizens who hold Israeli citizenship as well as another citizenship are required to show their Israeli documentation when exiting or entering Israel.

There is a high incidence of crime in Jerusalem, particularly in the Old City and at night. Travellers should travel in groups and dress conservatively.

Vehicle theft and theft on public beaches occurs often. Travellers are advised to keep their valuables out of sight and avoid wearing expensive clothing and jewellery.

The incidence of road accidents is high in Israel. Road travel may be dangerous due to poor road conditions and reckless driving. Exercise extreme caution in rural areas where roads may be unpaved and unlit at night. Avoid travelling after dark.

Land entry into Israel from the West Bank and the Gaza Strip is tightly restricted and borders may close unexpectedly. For more information about entry and exit restrictions into these areas, contact Israeli Authorities in your home country.

Do not take photos of government or military installations.

Travellers should take note of whether they will be travelling during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. During this time, respect the religious practices of the country and avoid eating, drinking and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. Always dress conservatively to respect local customs.

All travellers should behave and dress conservatively to respect local customs. Monitor local news closely around religious holidays to stay informed of the security situation, as it can be volatile.

Natural hazards such as sandstorms in spring and summer and flooding in the winter may disrupt travel plans and present a safety risk to the traveller.

LGBTI travellers should note that same-sex sexual activity is legal in Israel, but same-sex marriage is not. Israel has a growing gay-scene, however, in more conservative, religious areas, LGBTI travellers should avoid public displays of affection to avoid offending local sensitivities. In the Gaza Strip, same-sex sexual behaviours and same-sex marriage are illegal.

Travellers are strongly advised to completely avoid travel to all regions surrounding the Gaza Strip and of the West Bank due to civil unrest, violence, the risk of rocket and mortar launches, gunfire and of ongoing military activity. The security situation is highly unpredictable and dangerous. There is a continuing threat to any traveller present in these areas of being caught in the crossfire of violence, as well as of being kidnapped. If it is absolutely necessary to go to these regions, travellers are recommended to exercise extreme caution at all times, monitor news reports and follow the advice of local authorities. Passports should be carried at all times and alternative travel arrangements should be ready in case of rapid deterioration in the security situation.

Exercise extreme caution if travelling to Jerusalem. Protests and civil unrest are common and often turn violent quickly.

There are unmarked landmine fields in certain parts of the country, particularly in the West Bank and along Israel's borders. Travellers should not stray from roads and trails as a precaution. Do not travel to bordering regions to due political tensions and violence.

The threat of terrorism is high in Israel. Terrorist incidents have occurred in a variety of locations in major populated centers (including Tel Aviv, Eilat, Haifa, Beersheba, Netanya, and others), causing death and injuries. Incidents could be unpredictable and there is a strong risk that foreigners, although not directly targeted, could end up in the middle of highly dangerous situations.

Travellers visiting urban areas should exercise caution, stay informed of the present security situation, monitor local news reports and follow the advice of local authorities, especially during periods of religious holidays, such as Rosh Hashanah, Ramadan and Pesach (Passover).

Large political gatherings and demonstrations occur frequently and should be avoided as they can become violent. Travellers should obey government checkpoints, which may be set up without warning.