The city of Ramallah is unlike any other city in West Bank. Although surrounded by illegal Israeli settlements and checkpoints, it remains the most vibrant city in the West Bank. It is full of dreamers, aspirants, business women and men, young people and students, it is the way out for Palestinians out of the Palestinian reality.
Ramallah is located 10 km in north of Jerusalem, and it is the interim administrative capital of the Palestinian Authority. The existence of the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah has given the city more vitality and has helped the city develop faster and more organized than other cities in the West Bank. The city went through a lot of changes after being occupied in 1967. On the one hand, the city has been economically improved, but on the other hand it is still suffering from the ongoing Israeli occupation.
Birzeit University is located in a small village in the north of Ramallah. It is one of the most important and famous universities in the West Bank. It has over 12,000 students (64% of which are female students) and offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as Bachelor degrees, Master degrees, Doctorate degrees in multiple areas of study. Many international students attend the university for Palestine-related studies and learning Arabic as the university offers students from all over the world different educational, language and cultural programs.
Did you know that you don’t need to be in Germany to celebrate Oktoberfest? Yes, one of Ramallah’s villages is famous for its Beer and Oktoberfest festival. Oktoberfest in Palestine (aka Taybeh Festival) takes place every year on the 8th and 9th of September offering “Made in Palestine” German quality beer, a variety of local bands and DJ’s, and thousands of new people to make friends with.
The journey of most tourists visiting Palestine starts in Ramallah due to its variety of accommodation. You can find a bed in a shared room in a hostel or a luxurious room in a 5-star hotel. As well, Ramallah has a vibrant nightlife with numerous restaurants, cafes, bars and nightclubs.
Is it safe to visit Ramallah? Yes! Ramallah, just like any other Palestinian city, is safe for people to visit and enjoy. Friendly people are all around you. You will be amazed by their helpfulness and hospitality.