Public transportation in Israel is undergoing rapid growth and development. In recent years, an extensive railway network has been created, connecting major cities and the airport.
Buses remain the primary mode of transportation. The largest bus company in Israel is Egged, whose green buses operate most intercity and city routes. In Tel Aviv, bus services are mainly provided by Dan Bus Company. In addition, several new transport companies have emerged in recent years.
A unique national feature affecting public transport in Israel is Shabbat—the Jewish Sabbath, considered a holy day during which many activities, including travel, are restricted. Public transport stops running from Friday evening (sunset) and resumes on Saturday evening.
Exceptions exist in a few cities where limited bus and train services operate on Saturdays. However, taxis and shared taxis (sherut) continue to run seven days a week.
The same limited schedule for public transport also applies on Jewish holidays.
For using public transportation, it is recommended to purchase an anonymous travel card called “Rav-Kav”, which is valid across all types of public transport. Unlike a personal card, the anonymous Rav-Kav does not contain the holder’s personal data.
The card costs 5 shekels and can be loaded with any number of rides. It can also be topped up with daily or weekly passes. Rav-Kav cards can be purchased at ticket machines, kiosks, and central bus stations. Alternatively, you can use the Moovit app and pay for rides with a credit card.
A single validated trip allows you to use buses and trams for 90 minutes from the time of boarding, including transfers.
Multiple passengers can use one Rav-Kav card during the same trip if it is loaded with a multi-ride ticket (kartisiya). The card can be recharged with cash or by credit card.
Near Exit 02 in the arrivals hall of Terminal 3 at Ben Gurion Airport, there is a service center where regular passengers can issue an electronic “Rav-Kav” card (a public transport card for travel in Israel), top up its balance, purchase travel passes, and receive all necessary information about public transportation in Israel.
Opening hours:
Sunday–Thursday: 07:00–23:00
Friday: 07:00–15:00
IMPORTANT! Do not forget to validate your Rav-Kav card on every trip (on trams and buses), including during transfers, even if your card is loaded with a multi-ride ticket.