Jerusalem Safety Guide

Health, security, and travel safety information

Safe with Precautions

Jerusalem is generally a safe destination for tourists, with millions of visitors traveling to the city each year without incident. The city has a visible security presence, well-developed tourist infrastructure, and modern emergency services. However, as a city with complex political dynamics and religious significance, travelers should remain aware of their surroundings and stay informed about current events. The main concerns for visitors are typically minor crimes like pickpocketing in crowded areas, rather than violent crime. That said, Jerusalem's unique geopolitical situation means that security conditions can change, and occasional tensions may arise, particularly around religious holidays or in certain neighborhoods. It's essential to monitor local news, follow advice from your embassy, and respect local customs and sensitivities. Most visits to Jerusalem are trouble-free when travelers exercise common sense, stay informed about current conditions, and follow local security guidance. The Israeli security forces maintain a strong presence throughout the city, particularly in tourist areas and religious sites, contributing to overall safety for visitors.

Jerusalem is generally safe for tourists who stay informed about current conditions, respect local customs, and exercise normal travel precautions.

Emergency Numbers

Save these numbers before your trip.

Police

100

National emergency number for police throughout Israel; English-speaking operators available

Ambulance (Magen David Adom)

101

Primary emergency medical service; highly professional and rapid response in Jerusalem

Fire

102

Fire and rescue services emergency number

Tourist Police

02-539-1254

Located in the Old City; specialized assistance for tourists, multilingual staff; also reachable through regular police (100)

Municipality Hotline

106

For non-emergency municipal issues and general information

Emergency (Universal)

112

European standard emergency number, works from mobile phones

Healthcare

What to know about medical care in Jerusalem.

Healthcare System

Israel has a world-class healthcare system with universal coverage for residents. Jerusalem has excellent medical facilities with modern equipment and highly trained medical professionals, many of whom speak English.

Hospitals

Major hospitals include Hadassah Medical Center (two campuses: Ein Kerem and Mount Scopus), Shaare Zedek Medical Center, and Bikur Cholim Hospital. All have emergency departments and English-speaking staff. Private clinics are also widely available. Emergency treatment is provided regardless of ability to pay, though you will be billed afterward.

Pharmacies

Pharmacies (Beit Merkachat) are widespread throughout Jerusalem. Many common medications available over-the-counter in other countries require prescriptions in Israel. Super-Pharm and other chains operate extended hours. Duty pharmacies (on rotation) remain open 24/7 - check local listings or call 1-800-40-50-60 for locations.

Insurance

Travel health insurance is strongly recommended and often required by travel insurance providers. Israeli healthcare is excellent but expensive for non-residents. Ensure your policy covers emergency medical evacuation and repatriation.

Healthcare Tips

Bring copies of prescriptions with generic drug names, as brand names may differ in Israel
Keep your travel insurance details and policy number accessible at all times
Dehydration is common - drink plenty of water, especially during summer months
Sunscreen and sun protection are essential year-round due to strong Mediterranean sun
If you have specific medical needs, identify appropriate facilities before arrival

Common Risks

Be aware of these potential issues.

Petty Theft and Pickpocketing

Medium Risk

Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur primarily in crowded tourist areas, markets, and on public transportation. While not extremely common, opportunistic theft does happen.

Keep valuables in hotel safe, use anti-theft bags, keep bags in front of you in crowds, avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics, be especially vigilant in crowded markets and buses

Security Incidents

Low to Medium Risk

While rare, security incidents can occur. The city has experienced periods of tension, particularly during religious holidays or times of heightened political conflict. Most tourist areas have heavy security presence.

Stay informed through news and embassy alerts, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, follow instructions from security personnel, report suspicious packages or behavior, familiarize yourself with locations of secured areas

Traffic Accidents

Medium Risk

Traffic can be chaotic with aggressive driving common. Pedestrians need to be cautious as drivers don't always yield at crosswalks. The light rail system is generally safe but requires attention when crossing tracks.

Use crosswalks and wait for signals, look both ways multiple times, be extra cautious around light rail tracks, avoid jaywalking, consider using taxis or public transport rather than driving yourself initially

Heat-Related Illness

Medium (Summer) Risk

Jerusalem experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Heat exhaustion and dehydration are real risks, especially for those unaccustomed to the climate or when visiting religious sites with limited shade.

Drink water frequently (3-4 liters daily in summer), wear sun protection, avoid midday sun during peak hours (11am-4pm), take breaks in air-conditioned spaces, wear light-colored, loose clothing

Scams and Overcharging

Low to Medium Risk

Tourist-targeted overcharging occurs in some markets, unlicensed taxis, and tourist shops. Generally less severe than many tourist destinations, but awareness is important.

Agree on taxi fares before departure or insist on meter, negotiate prices in markets before purchasing, use licensed tour guides, check restaurant bills carefully, research typical prices beforehand

Scams to Avoid

Watch out for these common tourist scams.

Unlicensed Taxi Overcharging

Unlicensed or licensed taxi drivers may refuse to use meters and quote inflated prices, especially at tourist sites, hotels, and the airport. Some may claim the meter is broken or that a flat rate is standard.

Always insist on the meter (moneh) being used, or agree on a fare before entering. Use licensed taxis (white with yellow sign) or ride-sharing apps like Gett. Know approximate costs for common routes. Have small bills to avoid change-making issues.

Fake Tour Guides

Individuals approach tourists offering unauthorized guided tours at religious or historical sites, often providing inaccurate information and then demanding high fees or pressuring for tips.

Only use licensed tour guides (they carry official ID badges), book through reputable companies or your hotel, politely decline unsolicited offers, many major sites have free information available

Charity Collection Scams

People approach tourists claiming to collect for legitimate-sounding charities, religious institutions, or causes. Some may be legitimate, but many are fraudulent.

Don't give money to individuals approaching you on the street, donate directly to established organizations if desired, be particularly wary of anyone aggressive or persistent

Market Bait-and-Switch

In markets, vendors may show you one quality of item but package a different, inferior item. Some may also add items you didn't request to your purchase.

Watch items being packaged, inspect purchases before leaving the shop, negotiate clearly and confirm what you're buying, don't be rushed into purchases

Currency Exchange Tricks

Some money changers in tourist areas offer attractive rates but use sleight of hand, miscounting, or confusion between currencies to shortchange tourists.

Use official exchange services or ATMs, count money carefully before leaving the counter, avoid street money changers, be aware of current exchange rates

Restaurant Bill Padding

Some restaurants add items you didn't order, charge for bread or appetizers that seemed complimentary, or add excessive service charges.

Ask if bread/appetizers are complimentary, check bills carefully before paying, question any charges you don't recognize, keep track of what you ordered

Safety Tips

Practical advice to stay safe.

General Safety

Register with your embassy upon arrival for emergency notifications
Keep digital and physical copies of important documents (passport, insurance, etc.)
Share your itinerary with family or friends back home
Download offline maps of Jerusalem in case of connectivity issues
Keep emergency numbers saved in your phone
Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts
Learn a few basic Hebrew and Arabic phrases
Respect security checkpoints and cooperate with security personnel

Cultural Sensitivity

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites (covered shoulders and knees minimum)
Remove shoes when entering mosques and some synagogues
Avoid visiting Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif on Fridays and during Muslim prayer times
Don't photograph people, especially in religious areas, without permission
Respect Shabbat (Friday evening to Saturday evening) - many businesses close, public transport is limited
Be sensitive to the diverse communities and avoid political discussions with strangers
Don't bring non-kosher food into Jewish religious areas
Women should carry a scarf for covering head in certain religious sites

Accommodation Safety

Use hotel safes for valuables, passport, and excess cash
Check that windows and doors lock properly
Know the location of emergency exits
Book accommodations in established tourist areas for first-time visitors
Read recent reviews about security and location
Keep your room number private
Verify identity of anyone claiming to be hotel staff before opening door

Transportation Safety

Use the Jerusalem Light Rail (safe and efficient) for major routes
Licensed taxis are white with yellow signs on top
Download Gett taxi app for reliable service with set prices
Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas after dark
Keep bags and belongings secure on public transportation
Be cautious when crossing light rail tracks - trains are quiet
If renting a car, never leave valuables visible inside
GPS is essential if driving - Jerusalem's roads can be confusing

Money and Valuables

Use ATMs inside banks or shopping centers rather than on streets
Carry only what you need for the day
Split money between multiple locations on your person
Use credit cards when possible (widely accepted)
Keep small bills for markets and taxis
Be discreet when handling money
Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks
Israeli currency is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS/ILS)

Technology and Communication

Purchase a local SIM card for reliable communication and data
Use VPN when accessing public WiFi
Keep phone charged and carry a power bank
Enable location sharing with trusted contacts
Back up photos and important data regularly
Be cautious about what you share on social media in real-time
Download WhatsApp - widely used for communication in Israel

Food and Water Safety

Tap water is safe to drink throughout Jerusalem
Food hygiene standards are generally high
Be cautious with street food in very hot weather
Wash hands frequently, especially before eating
Check that restaurants have proper food handling certificates
Be aware of kosher and halal dietary restrictions in different areas
Many restaurants close for Shabbat - plan accordingly

Information for Specific Travelers

Safety considerations for different traveler groups.

Women Travelers

Jerusalem is generally safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. The city sees many women traveling alone without incident. However, cultural norms vary significantly between different neighborhoods, and women should be aware of these differences and adjust behavior accordingly. Harassment is relatively uncommon but can occur, particularly in crowded areas. Israeli society is generally egalitarian, but ultra-Orthodox Jewish areas and conservative Muslim neighborhoods have different expectations.

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and neighborhoods - covered shoulders, knees, and for some sites, head covering for women
In ultra-Orthodox Jewish neighborhoods (Mea Shearim), women should wear long skirts/dresses and covered arms
In conservative Muslim areas, modest dress (long sleeves, long pants or skirts, loose-fitting clothes) shows respect
Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas; use taxis or ride-sharing
Be firm but polite if experiencing unwanted attention; ignore or walk away
On public transport, be aware that some ultra-Orthodox buses have separate seating - you can refuse this
Solo women should feel comfortable dining alone - it's common in Jerusalem
Trust your instincts and don't feel obligated to be polite if uncomfortable
Consider joining group tours for visiting certain areas
Women-only tours and accommodations are available if preferred
Keep phone charged and share location with trusted contacts
The Western Wall has separate sections for men and women
Israeli women are generally independent and assertive - you can be too

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Israel has progressive LGBTQ+ rights - same-sex activity is legal, anti-discrimination laws exist, and same-sex partnerships are recognized. Tel Aviv is known as one of the world's most LGBTQ+-friendly cities. However, Jerusalem is more conservative due to its religious character.

Exercise more discretion in Jerusalem than you would in Tel Aviv
Avoid public displays of affection in religious neighborhoods and East Jerusalem
West Jerusalem's German Colony and city center are more accepting
Research LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations and venues in advance
The Jerusalem Open House for Pride and Tolerance is a community center and resource
Be aware that religious areas (ultra-Orthodox Jewish and conservative Muslim) strongly oppose LGBTQ+ visibility
Annual Pride events occur but are smaller and more subdued than Tel Aviv
Consider staying in Tel Aviv and doing day trips to Jerusalem if concerned
Online dating apps are used but exercise caution meeting strangers
Legal protections exist, but social attitudes vary widely by neighborhood
Transgender travelers should be aware that religious sites have gender-separated areas
LGBTQ+ travelers face no legal risks but should be culturally aware

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential for Jerusalem and Israel. Medical care is excellent but extremely expensive for non-residents - a simple emergency room visit can cost thousands of dollars. Additionally, the geopolitical situation means trip cancellations or evacuations, while rare, are possible. Many travel insurance policies have specific terms regarding Israel and Palestinian Territories, so read carefully.

Emergency medical treatment and hospitalization (minimum $100,000 coverage recommended) Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation (minimum $250,000) Trip cancellation and interruption due to security situations Lost, stolen, or damaged baggage and personal items 24/7 emergency assistance hotline with English-speaking operators Coverage for adventure activities if planning hiking, desert tours, etc. Personal liability coverage Coverage specifically stating it includes Israel (some policies exclude it) Terrorism coverage (many standard policies exclude this - ensure it's included) Pre-existing medical condition coverage if applicable

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