We’re thrilled to welcome you to UHaifa International and can’t wait to finally meet you!
Here’s some useful information to help you prepare for your trip.
The best and most cost effective way to arrive to the University of Haifa is by train. Here’s what to do:
Here’s some information about the Amal Taxi Service (shared service taxis) from the airport to Haifa:
Shared service taxis to Haifa and the surrounding area depart from the service post on Level G, next to Gates 01-03. There are signs directing passengers to them.
The service operates 24 hours a day.
Telephone: 04-8662324
For those who want to take the shared service taxi to a central bus station in Haifa (take it to “Merkazit Ha Mifrats CBS [Central Bus Station])” and not directly to the University of Haifa, you will be able to take either of the following buses from the Central Bus Station:
146: Departs from platform 23
You will want to get off at the last stop on campus: “Rav Tachliti (Multipurpose Building)”
For all bus times, please see the following link: https://mslworld.egged.co.il/?language=en&state=#/origindestination/1/0
Please be sure to insert the following information below for origin and destination:
Origin: Haifa Merkazit ha-Mifrats CBS
Destination: Haifa University : Ha-Carmel Park
For your convenience there are licensed taxi stands located along the sidewalk on the airport ground floor level outside at the Gate 03 exit. On level 2 by Gate 21’s exit there are reduced rates for private taxis to destinations on the government price list.
The public is kindly requested to use licensed taxis only.
Upon arrival to Ben Gurion Airport, we strongly suggest you convert a minimum of $100 to NIS (New Israeli Shekel) for transportation and food. When exiting the baggage claim you will see a “Bank Ha Poalim” money exchange booth next to the main exit to the train station.
The easiest way to obtain cash while in Israel is to use your bank/ATM card from your bank in your home country. Be sure to check with your bank ahead of time to find out if your card can be used internationally and if any extra fees apply. Also, if your card requires a password, be sure to bring it with you. There is a branch of Bank Yahav on campus with ATM machines that accept international cards.
You are encouraged to notify your bank ahead of time of the dates you will be abroad and where you will be traveling. This will prevent them from freezing your bank card due to what they may consider suspicious activity if they don’t know you’re abroad.
Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in Israel, and many places will also accept Diner’s Club and American Express. Credit cards can be used for purchases in stores, restaurants, movies, and for various services. In addition, your credit card can often provide you with a cash advance. Paying using credit card and banking apps on your cellphone is also an option.
You are encouraged to notify your credit card company ahead of time of the dates you will be abroad and where you will be traveling. This will prevent them from freezing your credit card due to what they may consider suspicious activity if they don’t know you’re abroad.
If you are lost or need directions upon arrival, please WhatsApp this number:
+972-52-866-6431
If your suitcase or any of your personal items are lost at Ben Gurion Airport, please provide the number above when filling out the contact information for the missing items report: +972-52-866-6431.
Dress in Israel tends to be casual, and what you wear at your home university is probably what you will want to wear at the University of Haifa. In addition to your basic clothing, we suggest you bring the following items:
If you will be living in the campus dormitories, we strongly suggest, you bring sheets and blankets (for a single bed) with you from home. For those who do not have them, we will be able to provide you with sheets and towels, but keep in mind that they are used but clean. The dormitories will provide you with a hotplate and a refrigerator for your room. Any other appliances and utensils can be brought with you or purchased during your first week in Haifa.
It should be noted that most American and European brands of toiletries can be purchased in Israel, and that Israel offers many comparable brands, so there is no need to bring a large supply of toiletries. Some items, such as batteries and reading material, are very expensive in Israel, so you may want to bring enough to last through your stay.
The electrical current in Israel is 220 volts, 50 cycles (as opposed to the 110 volts and 60 cycles in the USA). Therefore, if you choose to bring any electrical equipment from the USA, you will need to purchase a transformer. Some appliances, such as hairdryers and shavers, may be dual-voltage, and for these you will need adapter plugs that are convertible to the two pin adapter used here (the same one which is used all over Continental Europe).