East Jerusalem: A Tapestry of History and Culture

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك / على الرحب والسعة
  [min fadlik / 'ala al-rahb wa al-sa'ah]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryآسف
  [asif]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bukhayr. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al-inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأرغب في رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [urghab fi ru'yah al-qaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la akl al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأرغب في الدفع، من فضلك
  [urghab fi al-dafa', min fadlik]

• Help!مساعدة!
  [musaidah!]
• Go away!ارحل!
  [irhal!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itasil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [itasil bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أرغب في شراء...
  [urghab fi shira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat attala]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam siroh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk takhfid al-sir?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [al-sa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشر والنصف
  [al-ashir wa al-nisf]
• Morningصباح
  [sabah]
• Afternoonمساء
  [masa]
• Eveningمساء
  [masa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'a]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين ...؟
  [ayn ...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al-eanan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tarini (ealaa al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata ya'ti al-hafilat al-qadima?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tadhkirat (ila ...)]

East Jerusalem's history is deeply intertwined with the Old City, which became a significant center during the Ottoman Empire's rule from 1517 to 1917. Under Ottoman governance, the city was administratively divided, with East Jerusalem becoming a focal point for Islamic scholarship and culture, notably with the establishment of numerous mosques, madrasas, and public baths that still reflect the architectural heritage of that era.

Following World War I, East Jerusalem came under British control as part of the Mandate for Palestine. This period saw rising tensions between Jewish and Arab communities, culminating in violent confrontations in the 1920s and 1930s. The neighborhood of Sheikh Jarrah became a flashpoint, representing emerging divisions in the city that would have lasting repercussions in the decades to follow.

The 1948 Arab-Israeli War resulted in the division of Jerusalem, with East Jerusalem falling under Jordanian rule. This period saw significant changes in the demographics and administration of the area, where many Palestinian refugees settled. The Jordanian government invested in infrastructure and urban development, further entrenching the cultural and social fabric of East Jerusalem during this time.

The Six-Day War in June 1967 led to the Israeli occupation of East Jerusalem. This event marked a significant turning point in the neighborhood’s history, as Israel subsequently annexed the area, a move not widely recognized internationally. The annexation prompted extensive changes in urban planning, with an influx of Israeli settlers and development projects that continue to impact the demographic and cultural landscape.

In recent decades, East Jerusalem has become a focal point for ongoing Israeli-Palestinian tensions. The neighborhood is characterized by a vibrant Palestinian culture, with numerous cultural institutions, markets, and community centers, despite facing challenges such as restrictions on movement and economic hardship. This resilience is evident in various cultural expressions, from traditional arts to contemporary activism, reflecting the community's enduring identity amid adversity.

East Jerusalem is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Jerusalem. You can take the light rail from the city center, which connects to various points in East Jerusalem. Buses also run between West and East Jerusalem frequently. Taxis are available, but ensure they use the meter or agree on a fare beforehand, as some drivers may try to overcharge tourists.

Public transportation in East Jerusalem includes buses and the light rail. Buses are operated by both the Israeli and Palestinian authorities and can be a bit confusing, so check the routes beforehand. The light rail connects parts of East Jerusalem to the city center. Taxis are widely available and relatively inexpensive. Bicycles can be rented in some areas, but be cautious of traffic and road conditions.

While East Jerusalem is generally safe for tourists, it's advisable to stay alert and avoid areas known for higher crime rates, such as certain parts of the Old City at night. Petty crime can occur, particularly in crowded markets. It's best to avoid political demonstrations and to respect local customs and sensitivities.

In case of emergency, dial 100 for police, 101 for ambulance, and 102 for fire services. Hospitals and clinics are available, but ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the nearest medical facilities in East Jerusalem for quick access if needed.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in religious areas. Women should cover their shoulders and knees; men should avoid shorts. Religion: Do respect sacred sites, and observe local customs. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for the elderly; don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake; avoid physical contact with the opposite sex. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods; don't refuse an invitation to eat, as this can be seen as impolite.

To experience East Jerusalem like a local, visit the bustling markets such as the Arab Souk in the Old City for an authentic shopping experience. Try local dishes at small eateries, and don't hesitate to engage in conversation; locals are often welcoming and eager to share their culture. Attend cultural events or festivals if your visit coincides with them, as they provide a glimpse into the vibrant local traditions.