Knowledge Centre
New to Israel
Welcome! Here we provide you with a practical starting point for English-speaking dads navigating family life in Israel. Yes, it can often be the Wild West of the Middle East, it can test your patience, customer service leaves a lot of be desired... But it's now where we call home. Check out below some detailed guides, trusted organisations, and real answers — no fluff, just the stuff you actually need to know.
Whether you've just landed at Ben Gurion or you're planning your aliyah, this hub covers every aspect of settling in — from choosing a kupat cholim to registering for school, opening a bank account, and understanding what that letter from Misrad Hapnim actually says. Each topic includes practical guidance, FAQs, useful organisations, and links to recommended services in our directory to make your journey (.
Healthcare
Registering with a kupat cholim, finding English-speaking doctors, and understanding your rights.
Read GuideSchools
Understanding ganim, school streams, registration, and supporting bilingual kids.
Read GuideBanking
Opening accounts, understanding fees, and managing money in Israel.
Read GuideDriving
Licence conversion, car seats, buying a car, and road safety.
Read GuideHousing
Renting vs buying, popular Anglo areas, and dealing with landlords.
Read GuideUtilities
Electricity, water, gas, internet, and setting up your home.
Read GuideMobile Phones
Choosing a provider, understanding plans, and keeping your number.
Read GuidePublic Transport
Buses, trains, light rail, and getting around Israel.
Read GuideHebrew Learning
Ulpan, apps, and tips for learning Hebrew as an adult.
Read GuideShopping
Supermarkets, online shopping, and where to find familiar products.
Read GuideGovernment Services
Bituach Leumi, Misrad Hapnim, and navigating Israeli bureaucracy.
Read GuideChildcare
Maon, mishpachton, metapelet, and understanding your childcare options.
Read GuideWorking in Israel
Finding work, understanding contracts, taxes, and workers' rights.
Read GuideEmergency Numbers
Essential phone numbers every family in Israel should know.
Read GuideInteractive guide
Red Line with Kids — the Tel Aviv light rail, station by station
Every stop from Petah Tikva to Bat Yam, rated for families — with kid-friendly places to hop off for, fares, Shabbat notes and ready-made day trips.
Open the station guide🚨 Family Emergency Hub
Every emergency number families in Israel need — bookmark it before you need it.
Related Resources
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New to Israel and can't find what you need here? Let us know what topic we should cover next — or share a tip that helped you when you arrived.
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