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Embassies and Consulates
Embassies and Consulates
We recommend that all International guests register with their local embassy while here in Israel. Embassies & Consulates in Israel
Currency
The currency of Israel is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS)
One NIS = 100 Agorot
Coin denominations are 10 and 50 agorot, and 1, 2, 5 and 10 NIS.
Banknotes denominations are 20, 50, 100 and 200 NIS.
US dollars and Euros may also be used in popular tourist locations and change will be given in NIS, although the exchange rate will not be favourable.
Cash can be exchanged at the money changers or at the post office. Credit cards are accepted widely and ATM machines can be easily found.
Public Holidays
The standard work week in Israel is from Sunday through Thursday, and weekends are Friday to Saturday.
Israel has nine official holidays throughout the year. Jewish holidays are celebrated according to the Jewish lunar calendar, so the dates of the holidays vary slightly from year to year.
Holidays start at sunset, meaning that workplaces typically shut on the afternoon of the holiday's eve.
Collective leave is common at many companies and government offices during Chol HaMoed (the days between the first and last days of Passover and Sukkot).
School holidays typically include the day before and the day following the holiday. The Ministry of Education publishes the annual school holidays at the beginning of the school year.
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Rosh Hashana (Jewish New Year)
11-13 Sep, 2026
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Yom Kippur
20-21 Sept, 2026
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Sukkot
25 Sept - 3 Oct, 2026
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Chanukah
4-12 Dec, 2026
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Purim
22 Mar, 2027
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Passover
21-28 Apr, 2027
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Independence Day
11 May, 2027
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Shavuot
10-11 June, 2027
Security
Israelis are very security conscious and many measures are in place to ensure that residents and visitors are secure. At the entrance to public buildings, you may be required to show your bag and walk through a metal detector. Security guards are stationed at campus entrances and as Israel has compulsory army service, you will see armed soldiers everywhere. Make sure you know what to do if the Homefront Command siren is heard. We also recommend that you download the Homefront Command App and read the guidelines on the Weizmann security team website.
We are happy to answer any questions that you may have and the campus security team is available 24/7 at (+972 8934 2999).
News and Media in English
While most local news sites and channels are in Hebrew or Arabic, there are a number of options in English. Some are free, while others require a subscription.
- Ynet News
- Haaretz
- Jerusalem Post
- Times of Israel (also available in French, Arabic, and Farsi)
Newspapers in foreign languages can be purchased from bookstores. The most common English language newspapers are The Jerusalem Post and the International Herald Tribune (sold together with Haaretz).
Tourism
Israel's small size makes it easy for tourists to enjoy everything the country has to offer. A few recommended sites to start with:
Religion
Although Israel is the world’s only Jewish state, it is also home to many other religions, all of which are protected by law. In fact, Jews make up 75% of the population; 25% of citizens practice another religion, from Islam and Christianity to Baha’i and Samaritanism. We have provided some information on religions practised in Israel.
For more information, please visit the Wikipedia Religions in Israel page. Israel is also home to many different ethnic groups, such as Circassians and Arameans, who preserve their particular language and culture. The Israeli school system has different streams that cater to different religious and ethnic groups to allow communities to educate their children according to their values and preserve their traditions, language and culture.
Shipping Info for Departing
Should you wish to ship belongings onto another country, there are several ways to do so. You should check which will be the most cost effective and efficient way for you – sometimes taking an extra bag when you fly may be the best. IsraelPost has an option of sending items by sea – it takes about 3 months, but is usually the cheapest method. Many people simply take an extra bag with them on the plane and pay for this with the airlines.
Below are some links to International Shipping companies – if you use one of them we’d be glad to get your feedback for future guest use.
Shipping companies
More Information you may need
Erasmus+
After arrival
Welcome to the Weizmann Institute! The information here will assist you with day-to day life in Israel, such as extending or changing your visa, using your health insurance, renting off campus, family life and more.