Connecting with people in Israel from the UK should feel seamless. You might have family in Jerusalem or business partners in Tel Aviv. However, international calling rules often confuse people. You face different codes, varying costs, and time zone issues. Many people worry about high bills from standard carriers. This guide clears up that confusion for you.
We will explain exactly how to call Israel from UK landlines and mobiles. You will learn the correct dialing codes and format. We also look at modern tools to save money. Apps like Telfon change how we communicate globally. You can check general dialing advice from Ofcom regarding international rates. Let’s make your next call simple and affordable.
Understanding the Israel Dialing Code Structure
You cannot just dial a local number to reach another country. A specific string of digits directs your call through the network. Understanding this structure helps you avoid failed connection attempts. Every international number follows a strict logic. You must get each part right to connect.
The International Exit Code
This is the first set of numbers you dial. It signals your carrier that the call is leaving the UK. For callers in the United Kingdom, this code is 00. You dial this before anything else on a landline. It opens the line for international routing.
The Country Code for Israel
Every nation has a unique identity number in the phone system. The Israel country code is 972. This directs the call specifically to Israeli networks. You will use this code for every single call to the region. It replaces the first ‘0’ of the local Israeli number.
Area Codes and Mobile Prefixes
Once the call reaches Israel, it needs a specific location. Landlines use geographic area codes. These are usually one digit, like ‘2’ or ‘3’. Mobile phones use network prefixes instead. These usually start with ‘5’. We will break these down in detail later.
How to Call Israel from a UK Landline
Calling from a home or office phone remains common. The process requires a specific sequence. You must dial carefully to ensure the call routes correctly. One wrong digit can lead to a failed call.
Follow this exact order:
- Dial 00: This is the UK exit code.
- Dial 972: This is the Israel country code.
- Dial the Area Code: Remove the leading ‘0’ from the local code.
- Dial the Phone Number: Enter the subscriber’s local number.
Example:
You want to call a landline in Tel Aviv. The local number is 03-123-4567.
You dial: 00 972 3 123 4567.
Notice that we dropped the ‘0’ before the ‘3’. This is a vital step. The leading zero is only for domestic calls within Israel.
How to Call Israel from a UK Mobile
Mobile phones offer a slightly easier way to dial. You do not need to remember the ’00’ exit code. Smartphones have a built-in shortcut for international dialing. This method works on iPhones, Androids, and standard mobile phones.
The Plus (+) Sign Trick
Most mobiles utilize the plus sign (+) as a universal exit code. To get this, hold down the 0 key on your keypad. The plus sign will appear on your screen. This replaces the need to dial ’00’. It tells the network to handle the international exit automatically.
Mobile Dialing Steps:
- Press and hold 0: Wait for the + to appear.
- Dial 972: Enter the country code.
- Dial the Mobile Prefix: Remove the leading ‘0’.
- Dial the Number: Enter the rest of the mobile number.
Example:
You are calling a mobile number: 052-123-4567.
You dial: +972 52 123 4567.
This method is faster and reduces dialing errors. It works on almost every mobile network worldwide.
Select Number
List of Common Israel Area Codes
Landlines in Israel connect to specific geographic regions. You need the correct area code to reach a home or office. If you have a number starting with a zero, identify the region. Remember to remove that zero when calling from the UK.
Essential Area Codes:
| City / Region | Area Code | Dialing from UK (after 972) |
|---|---|---|
| Jerusalem | 02 | 2 |
| Tel Aviv & Central | 03 | 3 |
| Haifa & North | 04 | 4 |
| Sharon Region | 09 | 9 |
| Lowland & South | 08 | 8 |
Mobile numbers do not use these geographic codes. They use prefixes like 050, 052, 054, or 058. Treat the first three digits as the area code. Just remember to drop the first zero.
Key Differences: Landline vs. Mobile Numbers
Israeli numbers look different depending on the device. Recognizing the format helps you spot errors. It also prepares you for potential cost differences. Calling mobiles often costs more on traditional plans.
Landline Format
A standard landline number usually has seven digits after the area code.
- Format: (0X) XXXXXXX
- International Dialing: +972 X XXXXXXX
- These are fixed to a location.
Mobile Format
Mobile numbers are longer. They have nine digits in total, including the prefix.
- Format: 05X-XXXXXXX
- International Dialing: +972 5X XXXXXXX
- The prefix (like 052 or 054) indicates the original mobile carrier.
Always verify if you are calling a mobile or landline. This impacts your budget if you use a standard SIM card.
Best Time to Call Israel from the UK
You want your call to be answered. Calling at the wrong time is frustrating. You might wake someone up or interrupt their dinner. Israel and the UK are in different time zones.
The Time Difference
Israel is generally two hours ahead of the United Kingdom.
- UK Time: 12:00 PM (Noon)
- Israel Time: 2:00 PM
Daylight Savings Note
Both countries use daylight saving time. However, the dates they change clocks differ slightly. For a few weeks a year, the difference might be one or three hours. Always check the current time before dialing.
The Israeli Work Week
This is crucial for business calls. Israel’s work week is Sunday to Thursday.
- Friday: Most businesses close early for the Sabbath (Shabbat).
- Saturday: This is the day of rest. Do not call businesses.
- Sunday: This is a regular working day in Israel.
Best Window for Business:
Call between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM UK time (Monday to Thursday). This ensures you catch them during their office hours.
The Cost of Calling Israel: Traditional vs. VoIP
Calling internationally used to be very expensive. Traditional carriers still charge high rates per minute. You might pay up to £1.50 or more per minute. This adds up fast during a long chat.
Standard Carrier Rates
Your mobile provider (like EE, O2, or Vodafone) treats Israel as “Rest of World” or specific zone. Unless you buy a specific add-on, costs are high. You pay for the connection and every minute you speak. Text messages (SMS) also cost extra.
The VoIP Advantage
VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. This technology sends your voice over the internet. It bypasses expensive telephone lines. This results in massive savings. Apps using VoIP offer clear audio at a fraction of the price. This is where modern solutions outperform old ones.
Introduce Telfon: The Smart Way to Call
You do not need to pay high fees anymore. Telfon offers a superior alternative for calling Israel. It is a cloud telephony solution designed for savings and quality. It works for individuals and businesses alike.
Why Choose Telfon?
Telfon connects calls over the internet but rings on standard phones. You get crystal clear audio. The app is easy to use on your existing smartphone. You save money immediately compared to standard carriers.
Key Benefits:
- Pay-as-you-go: No hidden contracts.
- Massive Savings: Save up to 50% vs other providers.
- Global Reach: Call 180+ countries, not just Israel.
- Privacy: Keep your personal number private.
Over 30,000 users globally trust Telfon. It is available on Google Play, the App Store, and the Chrome Web Store.
Get a Virtual Phone Number for Israel
Do you do business in Israel? Do you have family there? Telfon lets you buy a Virtual Phone Number for Israel. This is a game-changer.
How It Works
You purchase a local Israeli number through the Telfon app. You own this number. When someone in Tel Aviv calls it, they pay local rates. The call rings on your mobile in the UK.
The Benefits
- Local Presence: Look like a local business.
- Trust: Clients prefer answering local numbers.
- Incoming Savings: Your contacts save money calling you.
- Flexibility: Manage the number from anywhere.
This feature is perfect for real estate agents, sales teams, or support centers. You build a bridge between the UK and Israel instantly.
Telfon Features for Business Growth
Telfon is not just for calling Grandma. It is a powerful business phone system. Companies use it for sales, support, and hiring. It replaces expensive office phone hardware.
Essential Business Tools
- Call Recording: Review calls for quality assurance.
- User Analytics: See graphs and charts of call activity.
- Call Forwarding: Never miss a lead.
- Voicemail to Text: Read messages quickly.
Advanced Integration
- WhatsApp Integration: Manage multiple WhatsApp accounts.
- Bulk SMS: Send updates to many clients at once.
- Dashboard Filters: Track usage and budget per user.
This is ideal for international hiring institutes or marketing experts. You can assign budgets to employees. You get full visibility into communication costs.
Who Needs to Call Israel?
Many sectors in the UK have strong ties to Israel. The need for cheap calls UK to Israel is growing. It is not just about tourism anymore.
Tech and Startups
Israel is known as the “Startup Nation.” UK tech firms frequently collaborate with Israeli developers. Constant communication is vital. Telfon ensures these calls are cheap and clear.
Real Estate and Investment
Property markets in both countries attract investors. Agents need to discuss contracts and viewings. A virtual Israeli number builds trust with local buyers.
Family Connections
Thousands of families live across these borders. Students study abroad. Grandparents want to hear their grandkids. Telfon makes long chats affordable. You worry less about the clock and focus on the conversation.
Troubleshooting Common Calling Issues
Sometimes calls fail. It happens to everyone. Usually, the fix is simple. Here is a checklist to solve connection problems.
1. Check the Exit Code
Did you dial 00 or use the + sign? Ensure you didn’t dial both.
2. Drop the Zero
Did you leave the ‘0’ at the start of the area code? Remove it. For example, 052 becomes 52.
3. Check Your Credit
If using a prepaid mobile, do you have funds? International calls drain credit fast. Telfon shows your balance clearly.
4. Network Restrictions
Some office lines block international dialing. You might need to ask your admin to unlock it.
5. Blocked Numbers
The recipient might block unknown numbers. Using a Virtual Number from Telfon helps here. It shows a recognizable ID.
Final Thoughts on Calling Israel
Reaching out to Israel is easy when you know the steps. Remember the structure: Exit Code (+/00) + Country Code (972) + Number (drop the 0). Keeping this formula in mind ensures you connect every time.
Don’t let high costs stop you from talking. Modern technology bridges the gap efficiently. Tools like Telfon offer the best balance of quality and price. You get professional features like recording and virtual numbers.
Whether for business deals or family catch-ups, clear communication matters. Use the right tools to stay connected. Try a smarter way to dial today.
Connect UK to Israel seamlessly with Telfon. Local numbers, clear calls.
FAQs: Calling Israel from the UK
What is the country code for Israel?
The country code is 972. You must dial this after the exit code (00 or +) for all calls to Israel.
How do I call an Israeli mobile from the UK?
Dial +972, then the mobile prefix (without the first 0), then the number. For example: +972 52 1234567.
Is it expensive to call Israel from my mobile?
Yes, standard networks charge high rates. It is cheaper to use a VoIP app like Telfon. You can save significantly on per-minute costs.
Can I get an Israeli number on my UK phone?
Yes. Telfon allows you to purchase an Israeli virtual number. Calls to this number ring on your UK device via the app.
What is the time difference?
Israel is usually 2 hours ahead of the UK. If it is 9:00 AM in London, it is 11:00 AM in Tel Aviv.
Does calling Israel require internet?
If you use standard lines, no. If you use Telfon or VoIP for cheaper rates, you need a Wi-Fi or data connection.
How do I send SMS to Israel?
You can send SMS via your mobile carrier or use Telfon. Telfon allows bulk SMS and custom messaging for businesses.
Why does my call not connect?
You likely dialed the leading ‘0’ of the area code. Remove the zero after dialing 972 and try again.
Can I use WhatsApp to call Israel?
Yes, if both parties have internet. However, for calling landlines or offline mobiles, you need an app like Telfon.
What are the main area codes?
Jerusalem is 02, Tel Aviv is 03, and Haifa is 04. Drop the ‘0’ when dialing from the UK.













