Gaza Gaza Strip, Palestinian Territory Travel Guide
Palestinian mobile networks (Jawwal, Ooredoo) operate, but service is intermittent and frequently disrupted by damage to infrastructure and power outages.
Internet access is severely limited and unreliable. Wi-Fi hot spots are rare and often non-functional.
Postal services are severely disrupted or non-functional due to the conflict plus a shortage of established infrastructure.
The official language is Arabic. Many educated Palestinians may speak English, specifically those who worked with international organizations.
Be prepared for intermittent and unreliable communication services. Always have alternative communication methods for emergencies, especially for authorized personnel.
Business hours and schedules are highly irregular and largely non-existent due to ongoing conflict, destruction, and severe shortages.
Businesses are generally closed or destroyed. Any informal commerce operates sporadically, based on availability and safety.
Banking services are severely disrupted. ATMs are unlikely to be functional or stocked with cash.
Religious and public holidays, like Islamic holidays, are observed. However, their impact remains secondary to conflict effects.
Typical operating hours for various businesses are irrelevant in the current context. Schedules are unpredictable.
Severe shortages of goods, fuel, and electricity significantly impact any potential commercial activities.
Authorized personnel should not depend on local services for daily needs and ensure self-sufficiency regarding supplies and funds.
While traditional Palestinian and Islamic cultural norms typically guide social engagement, the extreme humanitarian crisis and focus on survival often overshadow these norms.
Handshakes are common between people of the same gender. A simple "Salam Alaikum" (peace be upon you) is a polite greeting.
Modest dress is expected for authorized personnel. Shoulders and knees must be covered for both men and women.
Exercise extreme caution and respect. Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, most notably women and children. Photography can be seen as a security risk.
Avoid discussing politics, religion, or the conflict unless directly pertinent to your work and with extreme sensitivity. Do not engage in unsolicited political commentary.
For authorized personnel, maintaining respectful and modest behavior is paramount, recognizing the severe hardship experienced by the local population.
Infrastructure, including roads, public buildings, and transportation, has suffered severe damage or destruction.
There is no dedicated infrastructure or services for travelers with mobility challenges. The environment remains extremely challenging and inaccessible for individuals with disabilities.
Resources and organizations providing accessibility information or specialized assistance are not available for tourists or independent travelers.
Emergency services and healthcare providers are overwhelmed, further compromising access for individuals with special mobility needs.
Authorized personnel with disabilities must have comprehensive personal preparedness plans coordinated along with their organizations.
Uneven terrain and debris are common, making independent mobility very challenging.
No accessible public transportation. Private vehicle arrangements need prior planning and security assessment.
Limited availability of accessible information formats for emergency alerts or services.
Gaza is not equipped for travel with accessibility needs. Any individual with disabilities planning to enter must do so through a humanitarian organization with specialized support.
