Voluntary Work in Palestine in 2026-2027: You may have heard something about Palestine in the news over the last couple of years. Believe it or not, despite being a conflict-affected area, the West Bank is a great place to consider volunteering. 

Volunteering is a way for people to give back to their community or use their time and skills to support a cause they care about. For those who can, international volunteering is also a great way to spend time in a new place, learn a new language, or immerse themselves in a culture that is different from their own. 

If you’re thinking about spending some time volunteering overseas for an important cause, why not come to Palestine? Not only is it a beautiful and welcoming place, but you’ll also be contributing to an important cause that has captured the world’s attention. 

This article will talk about why you should choose to volunteer in Palestine, the kinds of volunteering opportunities you might choose, and some of the organizations you should consider volunteering with. 

Why Do Voluntary Work in Palestine in 2026-2027

Why volunteer in Palestine? There are many reasons! By volunteering, you can make a meaningful social impact, strengthen local service provision, and participate in cultural exchange and learning opportunities in this beautiful part of the world. 

Volunteering in Palestine is a great way to make a significant humanitarian and social impact. Under military occupation since 1967, the West Bank (located in the Middle East region west of Jordan) is facing increasingly difficult geopolitical circumstances. The impact on the local population is significant, as people face limited employment opportunities, restricted access to basic services, and severe limitations on movement, even within the small area they are permitted to travel. Nevertheless, Palestinians remain resilient and welcome international volunteers to stand in solidarity and support their cause. 

14 Volunteer Work Opportunities in Palestine
Best Volunteer Programs in Palestine for 2026/2027

Through your volunteer activities, you’ll help deliver crucial, limited services such as education, healthcare, and community development. These are crucial for building a strong future for Palestine and its people. Helping in these areas, particularly for children, is an incredibly impactful and rewarding way to spend your time. 

Apart from the significant social impact you can make, volunteering in Palestine is also a rich cultural exchange and learning opportunity for those who choose to join. Palestine is a place rich in history and of religious significance to the three monotheistic religions. It also boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and very welcoming people. Volunteering in Palestine offers an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in this beautiful and unique place. 

Types of Volunteering Opportunities

Due to the high level of need in Palestine, numerous volunteering options are available to suit a variety of skills and interests. Some of the more popular programs include things like: 

Teaching English & Language Exchange

The student becomes the teacher! Teaching English is an incredibly valuable way to help the Palestinian community. As the global language, learning English helps young Palestinians increase future opportunities and share their stories more effectively with the world. According to our students at Engage in Palestine, practicing English with native speakers is one of the most valuable ways they have improved their skills. 

Human Rights & Advocacy

Learn about the human rights situation in Palestine from local NGOs and activists who are working every day to fight injustice. This program offers a chance to look beyond the headlines and gain a deeper understanding of human rights abuses in the West Bank, equipping you with the knowledge and stories to advocate for Palestine. 

Youth & Kids Programs

With a large population of children and young people, there are plenty of opportunities to help support a brighter future for the youth. Some programs include volunteering at orphanages in Hebron, at a refugee camp like Al Fawwar, or in a local Palestinian village. 

Writing & Journalism

In this program, volunteers will meet with local citizen journalists and news organizations to learn more about the state of reporting and media in Palestine. Volunteers are encouraged to write articles on their own experiences living in the West Bank. 

Refugee support

Hundreds of thousands of Palestinian refugees were forced from their homes during the Nakba (catastrophe) of 1948, and fled to neighbouring countries like Jordan or to parts of what is now known as the West Bank. These camps face difficulties such as limited access to services, cramped living conditions, and restrictions on movement in and out of the camps. Supporting educational and community development initiatives in camps like Al Fawwar near Hebron is an area of high need. 

Voluntary Work in Palestine in 2026-2027

Requirements and Eligibility

Necessary skills and experience

Before volunteering, check the available programs to see if any match your skills and experience. If you’re just starting out in your career, consider a program with no prerequisites that offers support to help you learn the necessary skills. If you have a particular set of skills or expertise in a specific area, you could look for a program that allows you to use those skills for the community’s benefit. For example, you might find a program that asks for medical, facilitation, business, and leadership skills. 

Language requirements (Arabic knowledge helpful but not mandatory)

Another important thing to check is whether your chosen volunteer program has any language prerequisites. If you volunteer, you might need some Arabic to complete your program. This is especially true when your volunteering involves heavy interaction with the local community, but there is no option for translation. Make sure to check with your preferred organisation before you apply! Some programs, like those at Engage in Palestine, may even offer language support to help you communicate with the community. 

Short-Term Volunteering and Internships in Palestine 2026/2027

Getting to Palestine

There are two key crossings into the West Bank: a land crossing through Jordan at the King Hussein Bridge, or arriving at Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport just outside of Tel Aviv. 

Travel through Jordan is currently highly recommended, as many people have recently faced difficulty entering Israel through Ben Gurion Airport. The way is a bit longer and more complicated, but there is generally a better chance you will be granted entry. Read our article on traveling from Jordan to Palestine for more information. 

Entering the country

It is important to note that entering Palestine can be more difficult at times than others, depending on the changing security situation. 

There is a chance that you might be pulled aside for questioning when you try to cross the border. The questions will usually be about your intentions in Israel (tourism, visiting friends and family, etc) and why you have decided to travel now. Israel does not want to let in foreign activists who might support Palestine, so it is highly recommended that you do not mention coming to the West Bank or any West Bank cities, volunteering, or learning Arabic.

Organizations Offering Volunteer Programs

There are some great, locally run organisations offering volunteer opportunities in Palestine. We recommend locally run organisations because they ensure the work you will be doing is needed and organised by the Palestinian community. Below are some of the options you could consider:

Engage in Palestine

Engage in Palestine (مَرْكَزُ اَلتَّمَيُّزِ or Markaz Al Tamayoz) was founded by dedicated local community servants to create a bridge between Palestine and the world. 

We offer educational, cultural, social, and community programs to a diverse range of international students, interns, and volunteers. With a wide variety of topics to choose from, Engage in Palestine has something for everyone interested in learning about and experiencing life in Palestine.

Since its inception in 2011, Engage in Palestine has offered a rich and immersive learning experience to over 1000 international visitors, providing significant benefits to the local community, including children, Palestinian refugees, youth, and women. 

Local NGOs and grassroots initiatives

Smaller local and grassroots initiatives often require more support than larger NGOs. There are a lot of really great small initiatives around that could use extra hands.

  • Human Rights Defenders – A locally led organisation supporting local grassroots human rights activities, focused on deep learning about the Palestinian context and grassroots nonviolent action. 
  • Al Haq Human Rights organisation – An internationally known Palestinian human rights organisation in operation since the 1980s. 
  • Center for Jewish Nonviolence – An organisation offering support to local Palestinian communities via protective presence initiatives during olive harvests, or in day-to-day presence at regional villages in high need areas. 

International humanitarian organizations

Another option might be to volunteer with a larger international humanitarian organisation. These tend ot have more structured programs that run at certain times, and with a more competitive application process. Some that you could approach might be:

List of Voluntary Work in Palestine in 2026-2027 Programs

Here is a short overview, with the appropriate links for more information, of the programs Engage in Palestine offers to those interested in volunteering in Palestine.

1. Volunteer in the West Bank Program

Volunteer in the West Bank: Join us at Engage in Palestine and explore our diverse range of volunteer and internship programs! Any program you choose will have many people needing support, and your influence on the Palestinian communities will be unforgettable. The kind people of Palestine make the opportunity a fantastic and welcoming experience.

Take advantage of this exceptional opportunity to meet Palestinian people, experience their daily lives, learn Arabic, and gain a unique perspective of the Israel-Palestinian conflict firsthand! Your role as an international volunteer or intern can significantly improve Palestinians’ prospects in various ways, including teaching English, organizing community activities, raising awareness, and informing the world that Palestine is not portrayed as mainstream media sources commonly depict it.

Because of the occupation, Palestinians have not always had the opportunity to offer the world an authentic portrayal of their culture, and they are all keen to share their expertise and encourage international visitors to participate in Palestinian culture. Your experience with us will be fulfilling and gratifying! We offer opportunities throughout the year, with durations ranging from one week to three months, available in all seasons and months.

2. Volunteer with Palestinian Refugees

Volunteer with Palestinian Refugees: This program caters to undergraduate and graduate students, professionals, employees of human rights organizations, retirees, and anyone interested in engaging with the work concerning Palestinian refugees in the West Bank, Palestine. Getting involved in refugee assistance presents an excellent opportunity for university students and recent graduates seeking to gain experience in the human rights field.

Through this project in the West Bank, volunteers will have the opportunity to work with Palestinian children, women, and youths to enhance each other’s skills, create mutual understanding, engage in language exchange, and make a difference in each other’s lives.

The Volunteer with Palestinian Refugees in the West Bank program is open to individuals between the ages of 18 and 70. People from all countries and majors are welcome to join this program. There are no specific degree requirements. All that is required is a willingness to participate and help. 

3. The Palestinian Women’s Rights Program

The Palestinian Women’s Rights Program in the West Bank is a volunteer initiative that allows international visitors to visit Palestine and gain exclusive insight into women’s rights in the West Bank. Located in the vibrant city of Hebron, the project provides participants with many opportunities to meet Palestinian women, visit women’s rights organizations, and engage in educational and cultural activities.

Aimed at educating international participants about the current power dynamics of women in Palestinian society, you will get involved with volunteering with Palestinian women by promoting their rights and empowering them in all spheres of life, including the family, the workplace, and politics, all whilst ensuring they are safe from violence, exploitation, and discrimination.

Altogether, this volunteer program will enable you to gain awareness about gender equality in Hebron (one of the most conservative cities in Palestine) whilst also allowing you to study and practice Arabic, meet other internationals, and experience Palestinian daily life. 

4. Media and Journalism in Palestine Program

The Media and Journalism volunteer program in the West Bank is ideal for anyone interested in giving Palestinians a voice on the global stage. As a volunteer, you will help raise awareness of circumstances within the West Bank while also learning about ethical journalistic practices. Although this program would suit many potential volunteers, seasoned and aspiring journalists are especially encouraged to apply.

This volunteer program in the West Bank, Palestine, would also interest students of journalism, mass communication, media studies, communications, political science, English, social work, and other related fields. Recent graduates will welcome the opportunity to gain real-world experience from this program, as cross-cultural communication, travel within the Middle East, and Arabic language acquisition are all highly valued by prospective employers. 

During the Media and Journalism program, you will be responsible for conducting video interviews with local Palestinians and writing articles encapsulating the Palestinian refugee experience. You will also participate in center-led activities and become familiar with Palestinians’ daily lives and human rights situations.

5. Volunteer to Teach English in the West Bank

The Volunteer to Teach English in the West Bank program offers an eye-opening experience for those who want to visit Palestine and engage with Palestinian youth, children, women, refugees, and community members in Hebron. Volunteers will teach English to Palestinian students at the Engage in Palestine Center or local community development centers, Palestinian local schools, governmental or non-governmental organizations, and refugee camps.

Additionally, participants will actively immerse themselves in Palestinian culture, daily life, politics, and regional situations. Engage in Palestine hosts volunteers and interns from around the world year-round. This involvement allows you to meet international colleagues at the Center, travel throughout Palestine, and collaborate in teaching English. You will also participate in various social, educational, cultural, and community development activities in Hebron.

Suppose you aspire to pursue a career in TESOL, TESL, TEFL, or related English language teaching roles. In that case, this internship program provides an outstanding opportunity to acquire practical experience and bolster your English teaching skills.

6. Volunteer with Palestinian Children

Volunteer With Palestinian Children Program offers students, professionals, retirees, and teachers an excellent opportunity to work directly with Palestinian children in the West Bank. It welcomes anyone interested in volunteering or interning, regardless of their first language.

Those interested in childhood education can benefit from volunteering or interning with children in Palestine. Participants are immersed in Palestinian culture, daily life, politics, human rights, and education.

Volunteers can join our program for 1 to 13 weeks, with flexible start and end dates year-round. All backgrounds and nationalities are welcome to apply, but participants must be at least 18.

As a volunteer or intern in Hebron, West Bank, you will meet many Palestinian children eager to interact with visitors. Supporting their growth positively impacts their well-being and the future of their country, making a difference in both their lives and yours.

7. Palestinian Community Development Program

The Volunteer in Palestinian Community Development Program in the West Bank offers a unique opportunity for students, undergraduates, teachers, and others seeking to volunteer or intern in Palestinian community development organizations in Palestine and Israel. If you wish to help Palestinian children and youth, refugees in refugee camps, and other community members in and around Hebron, West Bank, this program is for you. As a volunteer, you will be immersed in Palestinian culture whilst meeting new people (from Palestine and abroad), studying Arabic, and making a difference in people’s lives.

The Palestinian Community Development Volunteer and Internship Program has an essential impact on the Palestinian community. Through this program, you can help empower community members to develop themselves personally, professionally, and economically. At the same time, volunteers gain valuable experience in their personal development by running seminars, giving lectures, offering employment advice, and building interpersonal relationships within the local Palestinian community.

8. Volunteer in Environment and Conservation Program in Palestine

Volunteer in Environment and Conservation Program in Palestine: You are invited to join us at Engage in Palestine and volunteer in our Environment and Conservation program, aimed at teaching Palestinian youth, refugees, and children about the importance of preserving the environment. In the West Bank, Palestine, there is a pressing need for such programs, as many residents of Hebron are unaware of the harmful effects of littering and environmental neglect on their own lands and streets.

This volunteer program is an excellent opportunity for students, graduates, and travelers interested in the environment and conservation in the West Bank. If you’re a university student looking for an environment and conservation program abroad to supplement your studies during your summer break, this program is ideal for you.

By joining our volunteer program in the West Bank, you will have the chance to share your passion for the environment and conservation while experiencing Palestinian daily life and learning about Palestinian culture firsthand. We offer our participants three hours of complimentary Arabic Classes each week, taught one-to-one or in small groups of two to three students, and accommodation during their stay.

9. Volunteer in a Sports Project in Palestine

Volunteer in a Sports Project in Palestine: Since its establishment in 2011, Engage in Palestine has maintained high standards in English language teaching with the help of numerous international volunteers. However, to meet the increasing demand for diverse programs, we are excited to introduce a new series of volunteer programs, including the Volunteer in a Sports Project in Palestine.

This volunteer program in the West Bank offers a unique opportunity for current students, postgraduates, gap year students, professionals, teachers, retirees, and anyone interested in sports-related fields to volunteer with the local Palestinian community. As a volunteer, you can share your passion and expertise by organizing workshops, lectures, sporting tournaments, training sessions, summer camps, and more for Palestinian youth.

The Volunteer in a Sports Project in Hebron program is ideal for individuals with a strong interest and background in sports or related fields. Through this program, you can develop your activities and contribute to the local Palestinian community while gaining personal and professional development opportunities and having fun.

10. Volunteer With Orphanages in Palestine

Volunteer With Orphanages in Palestine: Hebron City, in the Occupied West Bank, is home to several orphanages that provide essential care and support to thousands of Palestinian children who have lost one or both of their parents. The high number of orphans in the region is largely due to ongoing conflict, military occupation, economic hardship, and limited access to healthcare. Some children lose their parents to direct violence, such as military raids, airstrikes, and clashes. Others are caused by the impact of long-term instability, including imprisonment of family members, displacement, or lack of access to health services. 

There are approximately 7,000 orphans in and around Hebron city, ranging from infants to young adults. These orphanages provide essential services such as housing, education, medical care, and psychological support to children without stable family situations. They often rely on funding from local charities, international donors, and religious organizations to support their operations. Some orphanages also function as social enterprises, operating businesses like kitchens and grocery stores to generate income and further support their work.

How to Apply?

Depending on the organisation you’re planning to volunteer with, applying for your chosen program could be really easy, or it could take some time. If you’ve never really used it for something like this before, the following guide should be a helpful step-by-step. 

Research Programs & Organizations

Because there are many volunteer organisations, selecting the right one is an important decision. It can be difficult to tell the reality of an experience from what you see online. So, how do you pick a good organisation? 

Our advice is to check not only the organisation’s website but also their online presence elsewhere, where you can verify the experiences of other volunteers. Engage in Palestine is registered with Go Overseas, a well-known organisation that helps people from around the world to find meaningful and fulfilling volunteer positions. We currently have a 4.85 (out of 5) rating from over 900 reviews and have received over 20 community awards since 2019, including for 2024. 

Application Process

Check the application requirements for your chosen program. Some may require a CV, a motivation letter, or even an interview. It’s best to check the guidelines and be prepared to participate in the process. 

It’s straightforward to apply to volunteer with Engage in Palestine. Check our programs for the one you are most interested in, and email us Info@ecpalestine.org with the dates you would like to attend. You will be forwarded a short application form to fill out and return before you are accepted into the program. 

Funding and Financial Support

The next question you might be asking yourself is, How do I fund my volunteer experience? First, check the program fees from your chosen organization to make sure they fall within your budget. At Engage in Palestine, our program fees include secure accommodation, breakfast five days a week, three hours of Arabic lessons per week, and cultural trips around Hebron city. 

Bank account looking a little on the empty side? Fundraising is one way to help cover the costs of your chosen program. Crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe allow friends and family to support your volunteer experience. Sharing your motivations for coming to Palestine, along with a donation link, is an easy way to get support. 

Testimonials from Volunteers

Volunteering in Palestine is an incredibly enriching and rewarding experience that enables you to make a significant social impact simultaneously. Hear from a volunteer who spent time at Engage in Palestine in 2025:

“I spent 1 week with Engage in Palestine as part of their Human Rights program. I had some idea of what to expect before coming here, but I had never been to the region before, so I still had many questions. During my time in Hebron, the staff at Engage in Palestine were incredibly welcoming and helpful, and provided me with an experience I will never forget. 

Throughout the week, I had the chance to study Arabic, engage with the local community, and volunteer as a protective presence for villagers in the Masafar Yatta region, all while gaining a better understanding of the situation in the West Bank. I had the opportunity to experience Palestinian culture and truly felt welcomed by the local community. I always felt safe and would recommend this program to anyone considering it!”

Chris, 30, United States. 

Summary

So what are you waiting for? There are plenty of volunteer opportunities in Palestine just waiting for extra hands to help make a difference. 

Still not sure? Got some more questions? Engage in Palestine has welcomed over a thousand volunteers over the last decade, and we have plenty of experience in guiding internationals to have a great experience in Palestine. You can read more of our articles on travel, safety, and available programs on our website, or simply get in touch with our team at Info@ecpalestine.org to ask any questions you might have. 

We look forward to welcoming you to Palestine! 

Contact Us

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at:

Info@ecpalestine.org

WhatsApp: +972 599 479 880

Website: https://ecpalestine.org/

EC Website: https://excellencenter.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/excellence.center

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