Expats moving to Israel do so for various reasons. Many are attracted by the culture or faith, while others are drawn to the vibrant economy and thriving technology sector.
Even though its landmass is actually smaller than the US state of New Jersey, there are around 8.8 million people living in Israel. It is the world's only official Jewish state, and a huge proportion of the population is Jewish. Due to a continuous influx of immigrants over the years, the population is diversified with Arab, American, European, Russian, Asian, and African nationalities. The official languages in Israel are Hebrew and Arabic. English is spoken widely, especially in urban areas and in businesses, and is the country's unofficial third language.
Living in Israel as an expat
Israel’s modern and diverse market economy is built on several industries, including biotechnology, electronics, information technology, manufacturing, telecommunications and tourism. Expats working in Israel mostly work in these sectors. Israel’s technology industry, in particular, has attracted massive foreign investment. With this influx of capital, ample opportunities for talented and qualified expats have subsequently arisen.
Although accommodation prices are rather high, expats should be able to find an apartment to rent in the city of their choice or, if preferring something larger and more suited for a family, houses are predominantly found in the outer suburbs of cities. Transport is abundant and affordable in Israel. So, if choosing to live outside the city centre, expats will be able to commute to work without the use of a car and without breaking the bank.
Safety can be a concern in certain areas of the country, but expats in Israel can avoid troubled areas fairly easily in cities such as Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa and Be'er Sheva.
Cost of living in Israel
Although the cost of transport and food in the country is reasonable, high accommodation prices and low salaries compared to other developed countries mean that the cost of living in Israel can be high. That said, expats can earn lucrative salaries in Israel and costs are largely dependent on where in the country they choose to live, as well as their lifestyle.
Expat families and children
Despite Israeli public schools being both free and of a generally high standard, many expats send their children to international schools, as the language of instruction in public schools is Hebrew. Tuition for international schools is high, but children will be able to continue with a familiar curriculum and language of instruction while also receiving an excellent education.
Families will also discover that Israel is an incredibly child friendly country. All cities accommodate for children's needs with plenty of activities and attractions to keep them busy outside of school. Zoos, beaches, museums and parks abound in Israel, and parents will therefore never be short of something to do with the little ones.
Climate in Israel
Although the weather in Israel varies from region to region, with mountains, a desert and a Mediterranean coastline, summers are warm and dry throughout the country. Winters are generally mild, but Jerusalem can get particularly cold. Rainfall generally occurs during the colder months, although the desert region is dry all year round.
Israelis are proud of their achievements in building an innovative and multi-cultural state. Expats who can adapt to Israel's unique, and often tense, political landscape will be able to experience a life which is both varied and full of flavour.
Fast facts
Official name: State of Israel
Population: Over 8.8 million
Capital city: Jerusalem
Neighbouring countries: Israel is bordered by Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula to the south, Jordan to the east, Lebanon to the north and Syria to the northeast. Israel is also bordered by Palestinian territories, including the West Bank to the east and the Gaza strip close to the northernmost border between the Egypt and Israel. Israel's western border is a coastline on the Mediterranean Sea.
Geography: Despite its small size, Israel has a diverse geography. A fertile coastal plain borders the Mediterranean Sea, while a series of valleys run the length of the country, from the hilly ranges in the north to the arid, desert landscape of southern Israel.
Political system: Parliamentary democracy
Major religions: Israel is the world’s only official Jewish state, with Judaism being the dominant religion among its population. Islam is the second-largest religion in Israel, largely a result of the country’s Arab population.
Main languages: The official languages of Israel are Hebrew and Arabic, but English is prominent in tourist and business centres.
Money: The currency in Israel is the Israeli Shekel (ILS), which is divided into 100 agorot (the singular is agora). It is fairly easy for expats working in Israel to open a bank account, and there are numerous ATMs in and around the country’s urban centres.
Time: GMT +2 (GMT +3 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October)
Electricity: 230 volts, 50Hz. Round three-pin 'M-type' plugs, European 'C-type' two-pin plugs and Israel-specific 'H-type' three-pin plugs are common.
International dialling code: +972
Internet domain: .il
Emergency numbers: 100 (police), 101 (ambulance), 102 (fire)
Transport and driving: Israel has a highly developed public transport system, so expats shouldn't experience much difficulty getting around the country. Cars in Israel drive on the right side of the road.