How to call Israel | In-depth guide with examples

Connecting with Israel from the United States is essential for many reasons, whether business, personal, or cultural.

Israel is known for its thriving tech industry, famous for innovation and startups, as well as its strong presence in agriculture, tourism, and finance. Its diverse culture, with deep-rooted traditions, lively festivals, and delicious food, also adds to its appeal as a valuable global partner.

Understanding the nuances of interacting with Israel is crucial for effectively fostering both business and personal relationships.

Guide to calling Israel

Before dialing, ensure you're aware of the rates charged by your carrier for international calls to Israel. You should also make sure your connection is reliable to avoid any issues caused by latency or choppy voice transmission.

1. Check the time in Israel

Considering the time difference is important when calling Israel. The country operates on Israel Standard Time (IST), which is UTC+2. During daylight saving time, clocks are set forward one hour to UTC+3. Depending on your specific location in the U.S. and daylight saving time adjustments, Israel is typically 7-10 hours ahead. Always check the local time in Israel to ensure your call is made at a convenient hour.

2. Dial the exit code

For international calls from the U.S., the exit code is 011, indicating you're making an international call.

3. Enter Israel's country code

Next, dial Israel's country code (+972) to connect your call to Israel.

4. Dial the area code and local number

Start with 011, followed by 972, the country code for Israel, and then the area code and local number.

For a landline

Input the area code for the specific region in Israel you're calling, which is typically one digit, followed by the seven-digit local number.

For example, to call a landline in Jerusalem with the area code 2 and the local number 1234567, you would dial 011-972-2-1234567.

For a mobile phone

Dial the mobile number directly after the country code, starting with the prefix 5, followed by the rest of the number, making it a nine-digit sequence.

For instance, to call an Israeli mobile number like 0501234567, the correct sequence would be 011-972-50-1234567.

Tips for a successful call

Before placing a call to Israel, ensure you have a strong, stable connection to avoid interruptions. Have a backup plan in case of technical issues, such as whether to call back or wait for them to reconnect.

Understanding and respecting Israeli business culture and etiquette is crucial. Israelis value direct communication and efficiency. Begin calls with a polite greeting like “Shalom,” and be prepared for straightforward discussions.

Be aware of local holidays and events, as they significantly impact business operations. Major holidays like Passover, Rosh Hashanah, and Yom Kippur can affect scheduling. It's wise to avoid planning calls during these periods.

English is widely spoken in Israeli business settings, although using simple Hebrew phrases can build rapport. A friendly “Toda” (thank you) goes a long way.

Respectful forms of address are important. Use professional titles such as “Doctor” or “Professor” if applicable, followed by the person’s surname. This shows respect and understanding of their culture.

Finally, be patient and flexible. The pace of decision-making might differ from what you’re accustomed to in the U.S. Adaptability and cultural sensitivity are key to successful communication.

Considerations for calling Israel

When planning to connect with individuals or businesses in Israel, it's essential to be mindful of the logistical and cultural factors that can influence successful communication. Here's a breakdown of key aspects to consider:

Language and culture

While Hebrew is the official language of Israel, English is widely spoken, particularly in business settings and among younger generations. However, learning a few basic Hebrew greetings can go a long way in establishing rapport and demonstrating respect for Israeli culture. Some common greetings include:

• Shalom
  • This versatile greeting can be used for both "hello" and "goodbye."
• Ma nishma?
  • Meaning "What's up?" or "How are you?", this is a casual greeting for informal settings.
• Boker tov/Tzohorayim tovim/Erev tov
  • These are formal greetings for "good morning," "good afternoon," and "good evening," respectively.

Culturally, Israelis are known for their direct communication style. They value straightforwardness and honesty, which might be perceived as blunt by those from cultures that prioritize indirectness. It's also important to be mindful of religious observances, such as Shabbat (from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset), during which many businesses and services are closed.

Time zones

Israel observes Israel Standard Time (IST), which is seven hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2). To ensure you're calling at a convenient time, it's crucial to be aware of the time difference between Israel and your location.

Here's a table illustrating the time difference between various U.S. time zones and IST:

How much does it cost to call Israel?

Call charges to Israel can fluctuate depending on your phone carrier, the length of the call, and the time of day. To get precise rates, it's best to consult your service provider.

Carrier rates are a major determining factor, as each provider sets its own tariffs for international calls. These rates can differ based on your plan type, whether it's a standard pay-as-you-go rate or a dedicated international calling plan. Certain carriers might offer reduced rates for calls to Israel during off-peak hours or as part of bundled packages that include international minutes. For the most cost-effective communication, thoroughly examine your carrier's pricing structure and available international calling options.

Call duration also directly influences the total cost. Longer calls naturally lead to higher charges, making it essential to be mindful of your conversation length, particularly if you're on a pay-per-minute plan.

The time of day you make the call can also affect the cost due to peak and off-peak rates. Calls during peak hours are generally more expensive than those made during off-peak times, such as late evenings or weekends, depending on your carrier's rate schedule.

For more cost-effective options, consider using VoIP services like Skype, WhatsApp, or FaceTime, which often provide lower rates or free calls over the internet.

By considering these factors and planning your calls strategically, you can effectively manage communication costs while staying connected with your contacts in Israel.

Make affordable calls to Israel with Telnyx

With these tips and recommendations, you're ready to call Israel with confidence.

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