Abu Dis

Abu Dis is a Palestinian town in the Jerusalem Governorate, located on the eastern edge of Jerusalem, just beyond the separation barrier. It serves as a de facto administrative centre for Palestinian institutions connected to Jerusalem and is home to Al-Quds University's main campus. The town has a population of over 12,000 and is built on a hillside overlooking the Kidron Valley toward the Old City of Jerusalem. Abu Dis is known for its historic relationship with Jerusalem — before the separation barrier, it functioned as a close suburb of the city. The climate is Mediterranean: hot, dry summers and cool, rainy winters. Spring and autumn are best. The town is spread along a ridge and is walkable in the central area.

By Plane

Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) is 50 km northwest. A taxi costs ₪250–350. A sherut from TLV to Jerusalem's Damascus Gate (₪45) and then a shared taxi or bus to Abu Dis (₪5, 10 min) is more economical.

By Car / Road

Abu Dis is 5 km east of Jerusalem's Old City, about 15 minutes by car via the Jericho Road (Route 1). Shared taxis from Jerusalem's Damascus Gate and the Central Bus Station run to Abu Dis frequently (₪5).

The main road (Jericho Road) runs through the town. Shared taxis and buses connect Abu Dis to Jerusalem, Al-Eizariya, and the surrounding areas. The town is walkable along the ridge.

• Al-Quds University (Abu Dis campus) — The main campus of Palestine's leading university, with modern buildings and a prominent hilltop location.

• Abu Dis viewpoint — The western edge of town offers a view of the Old City of Jerusalem, the Dome of the Rock, and the Mount of Olives.

• Separation barrier — The section of the barrier running through Abu Dis is a powerful visual reminder of the political situation.

• Abu Dis Mosque — The main mosque, a large modern building.

• Visit Al-Quds University — The campus has a welcoming atmosphere and occasional cultural events.

• Viewpoint photography — The panorama of Jerusalem from Abu Dis is one of the best in the area.

• Walk to the Mount of Olives — A scenic 30-minute walk west to the Mount of Olives viewpoint.

• Explore the local market — Abu Dis has a small but lively commercial street.

• Abu Dis Restaurant — A popular spot on the main road serving grilled chicken, kebabs, and Palestinian meze. Mains ₪30–55.
• University cafeteria — Al-Quds University's cafeteria is open to visitors and serves affordable meals (₪15–25).
• Falafel and shawarma stands — Several street food stalls along the main road. Sandwiches ₪8–15.

Fresh juice stalls line the main road (₪5–8). Bottled water (₪2) is widely available. Alcohol is not widely available.

• Budget: Abu Dis Guesthouse — A small guesthouse near the university, catering to international visitors. Doubles from ₪100/night.
• Mid-range: Jerusalem hotels are 15 minutes west: Al-Audi Hotel (from ₪250/night).
• Alternatively: The Mount of Olives Hotel in East Jerusalem (from ₪300/night).

Abu Dis has a small commercial district along the main road with grocery shops, bakeries, and clothing stores. For serious shopping, Jerusalem's Old City is 15 minutes away.

• Jerusalem Old City (5 km, 15 min west) — The Dome of the Rock, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Western Wall.
• Al-Eizariya (Bethany) (3 km, 5 min east) — The Tomb of Lazarus and the Church of St. Lazarus.
• Mount of Olives (3 km, 10 min west) — The panoramic viewpoint and the Church of All Nations.
• Bethlehem (15 km, 25 min south) — The Church of the Nativity.
• Jericho (25 km, 30 min east) — The ancient city of Tell es-Sultan.