Moving to Israel? These Apps Will Make Your Life 10x Easier
Moving to a new country like Israel can feel overwhelming, especially with language barriers, unfamiliar systems, and everyday logistics to manage. Luckily, there are apps designed to help you navigate these challenges. From understanding Hebrew's gendered grammar to managing public transit, payments, and even food delivery, these tools simplify your transition. Here's a quick rundown of 10 apps that will ease your move:
- baba: A translation app tailored for Hebrew's unique grammar, including gender-specific forms and slang.
- Moovit: A public transit app covering buses, trains, and more with real-time updates and an English interface.
- Waze: A traffic navigation app with community-driven updates and English support.
- Bit: A must-have for instant local payments and bill splitting.
- Gett: A reliable ride-hailing app for taxis across major cities.
- Wolt/Tenbis: Food delivery apps offering access to restaurants and grocery options.
- Masa: Helps you find events and expat communities.
- Google Maps: Dual-language navigation with Hebrew and English place names.
- Yango Deli: Grocery delivery for everyday essentials.
- Pepper/Banking Apps: Manage finances and payments seamlessly.
These apps cover everything from transportation to banking, making your life in Israel much easier. Download them before you arrive to hit the ground running.
10 Essential Apps for Moving to Israel: Quick Reference Guide
1. baba - Smart Hebrew Translation
How it helps with Israeli Hebrew
Hebrew can be tricky for most translation apps, thanks to its complex gender-based grammar. In Hebrew, verbs, adjectives, and pronouns all change depending on the genders of both the speaker and the listener. For example, a woman saying "I went" uses a different form than a man. Unfortunately, most translation tools default to male forms, often missing these subtle but important details.
baba tackles this challenge head-on. Using advanced AI, the app lets you choose your gender during setup and specify the context of your conversation - whether you're addressing a man, woman, or group. baba then adjusts the translation, ensuring it feels natural and fits Hebrew's unique grammar rules.
Gender-aware Translation and Slang Support
baba doesn’t just get the grammar right - it also nails Israeli slang. Slang evolves quickly, and traditional translation tools often miss the mark, translating phrases literally instead of capturing their meaning. With baba's Slang Mode, modern expressions like "אחי" (meaning "dude") and "יאללה" ("let's go") are translated accurately, making your Hebrew sound current and authentic.
"As a female traveler to Israel, other translation apps kept giving me the wrong gender forms. baba is the only app that gets it right every time."
- Rachel M., Pixel 6 user [1]
baba supports 14 languages and has already handled over 30,000 translations. Whether you’re texting a friend, ordering food, or handling formal tasks, baba ensures your Hebrew fits the situation perfectly.
Why it Works for English Speakers
For English speakers, baba offers an added bonus: Hebrew transliteration using Latin characters. This feature helps you pronounce words correctly without needing to learn the Hebrew script. The app also includes three translation modes to suit different needs: Standard for formal and precise translations, Fast for casual conversations, and Ultra-Fast for quick lookups.
Available on both iOS and Android, baba is optimized for all kinds of devices. Jake K., a Samsung Galaxy A53 user, shared his experience:
"Finally a translation app that doesn't lag on my mid-range phone! baba is fast, light, and doesn't drain my battery like other translation apps." [1]
Privacy and Ease of Use
baba isn’t just about accuracy - it’s also designed with privacy in mind. Unlike many apps, baba doesn’t require an account, so you can start translating right away without handing over personal information. Your data stays local, ensuring your privacy is protected.
The app offers a free plan with 7,500 characters per month using the Standard model. For those who need more, the Pro plan unlocks 250,000 characters monthly, voice input, access to all three translation modes, and unlimited Slang Mode. Ready to master Hebrew? Download baba and start translating with confidence today.
2. Moovit - Public Transportation Navigation
How It Works in Israel
Navigating Israel’s public transit system can feel like a maze. With more than 15 different operators managing buses, trains, light rail, and even cable cars, each running on its own schedule, making seamless connections can be tricky [3].
That’s where Moovit steps in. This app pulls together all these transit options into one easy-to-use platform. It covers buses, trains, light rail, cable cars, and shuttles, providing straightforward directions [3]. As Israel’s go-to urban mobility app, it simplifies the chaos so you can focus on getting where you need to go.
English Interface and Route Planning
Moovit’s fully English-compatible interface makes navigating Israel’s transit system much less daunting. You can search for routes, check schedules, and explore maps without needing to read Hebrew [3]. Just type in your destination, and the app provides step-by-step instructions, including walking distances, transfer points, and how many stops are left. Its "Live Directions" feature even alerts you when it’s time to get off, making it a lifesaver if you’re unfamiliar with the area [3].
This level of detail ensures you stay on track, even in a busy or unfamiliar city.
Real-Time Updates and In-App Payments
One of Moovit’s standout features is its real-time updates. Whether a bus is delayed or a train route changes, the app notifies you instantly, helping you adapt your plans on the fly [3].
Moovit also offers in-app ticket purchases through Moovit Pay, streamlining the payment process [3]. For those looking for an ad-free experience with advanced features like live line tracking, there’s the option to upgrade to Moovit+ [6].
Why Newcomers Need It
Public transportation is central to daily life in Israel, especially if you’re not driving. Moovit eliminates much of the confusion and language barriers, making it easier to navigate from day one. With over 1 million 5-star ratings worldwide, its reputation for reliability speaks for itself [6]. If you download it before you arrive, you’ll be ready to explore the country without missing a beat.
3. Waze - Real-Time Traffic and Driving Directions
Traffic Alerts and Route Adjustments
Waze, developed in Israel, stands out as the go-to traffic navigation app in the country [2]. It provides real-time traffic updates and adjusts your route dynamically based on current conditions. With traffic in Israel often shifting unpredictably, Waze ensures you're always on the most efficient path, saving time and avoiding unnecessary frustration [2].
Language Options: Hebrew and English
For those unfamiliar with Hebrew, Waze is a lifesaver. The app works effortlessly in English, making it a great tool for expats or travelers navigating Israel's roads [2][5].
Real-Time Updates from the Community
One of Waze's standout features is its community-driven reporting. Drivers can share updates on accidents, police presence, road hazards, and traffic jams as they happen [5]. This crowdsourced information gives you a heads-up about potential road issues, allowing you to adjust your route accordingly. Whether it's a surprise construction zone or an unexpected delay, Waze keeps you informed and in control.
A Handy Tool for New Drivers in Israel
Waze does more than just guide you to your destination. Pair it with parking apps like Pango or Cellopark to handle digital street parking with ease [5]. While Waze ensures you arrive smoothly, these apps help you park legally and hassle-free once you get there. Together, they make navigating Israel's roads far less daunting.
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4. Mobile Banking Apps for Managing Israeli Finances
Managing your finances in Israel has never been easier, thanks to mobile banking apps. Just like you rely on tools to navigate transit or language barriers, digital banking platforms are here to simplify your financial life.
Opening an Israeli bank account is one of the first steps to take, and mobile apps make the process much smoother. Pepper, Bank Leumi's mobile-only platform, is a great example. It allows you to manage your account, track your spending, and even set up budgets - all without needing to visit a branch[2].
Bill Payments and Transfers
For everyday transactions, Bit is a must-have app. It’s perfect for instant peer-to-peer payments, whether you’re splitting a dinner bill or paying your share of utilities. Bit works seamlessly, making it an essential download as soon as you arrive in Israel[2][5].
What Expats Need to Know
Digital banking tools don’t just simplify local payments - they also make managing international finances easier. For cross-border transfers, pairing your local banking app with Wise (formerly TransferWise) ensures you get real exchange rates and transparent fees. And if you need to visit a bank branch, apps like MyVisit let you schedule appointments, saving you from long waits[2].
These tools integrate smoothly into daily life, giving you the confidence to handle Israeli banking like a pro.
5. Gett - Ride-Sharing and Taxis
If you're navigating Israel without a car, Gett has got you covered. This ride-hailing app is a favorite for reliable transportation across cities like Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, and Eilat. Since Uber doesn't offer standard ride-sharing services in Israel, Gett steps in as the go-to solution for both taxis and rideshare options[5].
How Gett Works in Israel
Using Gett is simple and efficient. Just enter your destination, tap a button, and a driver will be on their way. No more flagging down cabs on busy streets[5]. The app offers real-time tracking and estimated arrival times, making it easy to plan your ride. A pro tip: set up the app before arriving in Israel so you can book a ride from the airport right after landing, saving you the hassle of figuring it out on the spot[7].
English-Friendly Interface
One reason Gett is so popular with expats is its user-friendly design. The app is available in English, making it accessible even if you're not fluent in Hebrew[2]. This feature ensures a smooth experience for travelers and newcomers alike.
Pricing and Payment Options
Expect to pay between $10 and $20 for a typical taxi ride within an Israeli city. Considering that gas prices are around $6.50 per gallon, this pricing is quite reasonable[8]. To make things even easier, you can register your credit card in advance and use the app's split fare feature when sharing rides with friends[8]. Transparent pricing means no surprises or awkward haggling over fares.
A Smarter Alternative to Street Cabs
With Gett, you avoid the unpredictability of hailing a cab on the street and the risk of being overcharged[9]. The app's clear pricing structure ensures fairness and eliminates the need for negotiations. However, during late-night hours or quieter times, it might take a little longer to connect with a driver[5].
6. Wolt or Tenbis – Food Delivery
Adjusting to life in a new country often involves figuring out where and how to eat. In Israel, Wolt and Tenbis are the go-to food delivery apps, offering access to a variety of restaurants and cafes in major cities. These platforms make it easier to sample local dishes and satisfy cravings without stepping out the door [5].
Ordering Food in Israel
With Wolt, you can browse an extensive selection of eateries. Whether you're in the mood for shawarma, sushi, or pizza, the app simplifies the process: check out menus, pick your favorites, and track your delivery in real time.
English Menus and Interfaces
Although ordering is simple, you might encounter menus in Hebrew. A quick solution? Use your phone's translation tool to decode the menu and make ordering hassle-free, even if you're not fluent in the language.
How These Apps Differ
Wolt is often praised for its dependable service and impressive restaurant variety [2]. On the other hand, if you need groceries instead of a meal, Yango Deli is a great option. It specializes in delivering everyday essentials quickly and has an easy-to-use interface. While Wolt and Tenbis focus on restaurant orders, Yango Deli caters to household needs, giving you more time to adjust to your new surroundings. These apps are a convenient way to streamline your daily routine as you settle into life in Israel.
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7. Masa - Community and Events Finder
Moving to a new country can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to building a social network. Thankfully, there are platforms designed to make connecting with others and finding English-language events in Israel much easier. While no single app covers everything, using a mix of tools can help you discover communities and events that suit your interests.
These platforms go beyond logistics, helping you feel more at home by connecting you socially.
Finding Expat Communities
Secret Tel Aviv is a great starting point. It provides event listings, job opportunities, and tips specifically for English speakers. Whether you're looking for social gatherings or practical advice, this platform connects you with others navigating the same challenges of adapting to life in Israel [2].
Social Connections for Newcomers
Meetup is another excellent resource. It brings people together based on shared interests, offering everything from tech meetups in Tel Aviv to hiking adventures in the Golan Heights. It's a perfect way to meet like-minded individuals while exploring your new home [2].
How to Get Involved
In Israel, WhatsApp groups are a key part of staying connected. Many neighborhoods, apartment buildings, and community organizations maintain active groups where members share everything from local deals to event updates and general information. Joining these groups is a simple and effective way to integrate into your local community [2].
8. Bit - Local Payments and Utilities
Managing your finances in Israel is a breeze with Bit, especially in a country where cash is quickly becoming a thing of the past. Whether you're splitting a dinner bill or paying for utilities, Bit is your go-to app for instant money transfers [2].
Instant Transfers and Bill Splitting
Using Bit is as simple as sending a text message. Transfers are immediate, and the app is so commonly used that asking for someone's Bit details is just as natural as requesting their phone number. Picture this: you’re out for dinner with friends, and one person picks up the tab. Instead of fumbling with cash, everyone sends their share through Bit right away. Or, if you’re sharing an apartment, your roommate can send a payment request for utilities via the app. It’s the hassle-free way Israelis handle daily financial transactions without ever needing physical money [2].
Setup for New Residents
To get started with Bit, you’ll need an Israeli bank account. Setting up your account should be one of your first steps after arriving. The app connects directly to your local bank, making transactions seamless. For added convenience, you can pair Bit with Pepper for broader banking needs or Wise for currency exchanges [2].
9. Google Maps with Hebrew Overlay Support
Navigating Israel becomes much simpler when you can see both Hebrew and English place names on your map. Whether you're strolling through the streets of Tel Aviv or exploring Jerusalem's neighborhoods, Google Maps is an indispensable tool for getting around [5] [2]. Here's how its dual-language display makes your travel experience smoother.
Navigation in Israel
Google Maps works seamlessly across Israel, helping you locate businesses, attractions, and landmarks. While Moovit is great for planning public transit routes, Google Maps excels at finding local points of interest. And though Waze offers up-to-the-minute traffic updates, Google Maps shines when it comes to discovering and navigating new places.
Hebrew and English Place Names
The dual-language feature displays both Hebrew and English, aligning the names on the map with the signs you’ll see on the streets. This is especially handy when looking for specific locations like cafés or pharmacies. If you search for a place in English, you’ll also see the Hebrew script, making it easier to match what’s on your screen with what’s on the storefront. This feature is particularly useful in areas where English signage is scarce [2] [4]. Plus, with integrated translation tools, you can decode signs and menus, making it easier for non-Hebrew speakers to navigate.
Finding Addresses and Businesses
For those still learning Hebrew, tracking down addresses can be tricky. Google Maps simplifies this by letting you search in English while showing the destination's Hebrew name. You can even use your phone's camera translation feature to interpret Hebrew-only details, such as business hours or service information.
Offline Maps for Travelers
To make your travels even easier, you can download Hebrew language packs and map data for offline use. This ensures you’ll still have access to street names and navigation even without cell service [5] [1]. And since Google Maps is free, it’s an accessible option for anyone exploring Israel.
10. Yango or Similar Grocery Delivery
Navigating grocery shopping without knowing Hebrew can be tricky, but apps like Yango Deli make it much easier. Yango connects you with local neighborhood stores through an intuitive app interface that’s simple to use, even if Hebrew isn’t your strong suit [2].
These specialized delivery apps help break down language barriers, making everyday tasks like grocery shopping more manageable.
Grocery Delivery Options
If you’re looking for more variety, Wolt has you covered. Beyond delivering meals from restaurants, it also handles grocery orders from local cafes and stores [2] [5]. Need pharmacy items or prescriptions? Super-Pharm has a dedicated app that delivers everything from medications to over-the-counter essentials. They even send notifications for services like flu shots [2].
Navigating Hebrew Product Labels
Most grocery items are labeled in Hebrew, but don’t let that stop you. Use your phone’s camera translation feature to quickly decode packaging [2] [5]. For seamless communication with delivery drivers, try baba, which offers accurate, gender-aware translations for common phrases like "leave it at the door" or "here’s the entry code." The app is available on both iOS and Android [1].
Delivery Times and Coverage Areas
Yango currently operates in 11 cities across Israel, including Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Netanya [5]. While most services focus on speedy delivery, occasional delays can happen, especially during slower hours [5]. To avoid last-minute hassles, it’s a good idea to set up these apps in advance for any urgent grocery needs [9].
How baba Compares to Other Translation Tools
Here's what makes baba stand out when compared to other translation tools.
If you're moving to Israel, you'll quickly encounter language and cultural challenges that generic translation tools aren't equipped to handle. Most of these tools default to masculine forms and often overlook the nuances of Hebrew grammar and communication styles[1]. baba takes a different approach, offering a gender-aware setup where you can select your gender and define your audience. This ensures that every verb, adjective, and pronoun is grammatically accurate and tailored to the context.
Another standout feature is how baba handles slang and everyday expressions. Developed by native Hebrew speakers, it translates modern slang and idioms in a way that feels natural - avoiding the clunky, literal translations that can make conversations awkward. Whether you're sending a casual text to a friend or drafting a formal business email, baba ensures the translation feels smooth and appropriate for the situation.
Privacy is another area where baba excels. The app requires no login and doesn’t track your data, giving you peace of mind. Plus, it’s available on both iOS and Android, offering three translation modes: Standard for the highest accuracy, Fast for a balance of speed and precision, and Ultra-Fast for instant results. Whether you need help deciphering a street sign or crafting a polished professional message, these options let you choose the level of detail you need.
With these features, baba goes beyond basic translation, making it an essential tool for navigating Hebrew in everyday life in Israel.
Conclusion
Using apps designed specifically for life in Israel can make your transition smoother and less daunting. The tools highlighted in this guide address key challenges - like learning Hebrew with its gender-specific quirks, navigating unfamiliar streets, managing finances, and even ordering meals. Each app is designed to solve a particular issue, helping you settle in more comfortably.
Start with the essentials: baba (available on iOS & Android) for Hebrew translation, Moovit for public transit, and Bit for handling payments. From there, customize your app lineup based on your needs. Consider Gett or Yango for taxis, Wolt for food delivery, and WhatsApp to stay connected with friends and your new community.
These apps work together to simplify transportation, communication, and daily errands, helping you adapt quickly. Before long, you'll move from feeling like a visitor to truly settling in and embracing local life.
Make sure to download these apps before you arrive or as soon as you land. Dive into their features, set up your payment methods, save your go-to transit routes, and use baba to practice Hebrew so you can start sounding natural right away.
Click here to download baba and kick off your journey in Israel with confidence!
FAQs
What are the top apps to help newcomers learn Hebrew in Israel?
If you're just starting out in Israel and want to pick up Hebrew, baba is a fantastic app to begin with. It's available on both iOS and Android and does more than just basic translations. The app tackles gender-specific grammar, slang, and other nuances, making it super handy for real-life conversations.
Another solid choice is Nemo Hebrew. This app is all about building confidence in speaking, offering audio pronunciations recorded by native speakers. Plus, it works offline, so you can practice wherever you are.
For a more playful approach, Drops: Learn Hebrew breaks learning into quick, engaging lessons that focus on growing your vocabulary fast. These apps can make learning Hebrew feel less daunting and help you adapt to life in Israel more smoothly.
What apps can help me manage my finances in Israel?
Managing your finances in Israel becomes simpler when you have the right tools at your fingertips. Digital wallets, such as Bit, are great for cashless payments and instant money transfers, making everyday transactions smooth and hassle-free. On top of that, many Israeli banks provide online banking platforms that let you manage your accounts, pay bills, and handle foreign transactions with ease. These features are particularly helpful for newcomers adjusting to the local financial system.
What’s the best app for navigating public transportation in Israel?
When it comes to getting around Israel using public transportation, Moovit is a must-have. This app offers detailed transit routes, schedules, and real-time updates for buses and trains across the country. Whether you're navigating busy city streets or traveling between regions, Moovit helps you stay informed with the latest updates, making your journey smoother and more efficient.