Israeli Community in Birmingham

Where they come from

Israel lies on the eastern Mediterranean and is known for its technology industry, its universities and its ancient history. Hebrew and Arabic are widely spoken. Israelis in Birmingham include Jewish, Arab and other citizens, many of whom have come for academic posts, research and work in technology and medicine.

The community in numbers

At the 2021 Census, out of a city population of 1,144,919, 10 Birmingham residents described their ethnic group as Israeli; and 24 residents gave Hebrew as their main language. Main language figures leave out the many bilingual residents who use English day to day, so the number who speak the language at home is higher still. Many Israelis record their ethnic group in other ways, so these figures give only part of the picture.

Working for Birmingham

Israeli residents work in medicine, research, engineering, technology and business, and some hold academic posts at the city's universities. Israel's reputation for start-ups means that Israeli professionals often bring experience in innovation and entrepreneurship to Birmingham's growing technology sector.

Healthcare, education and the skilled trades are three of the pillars of the city's economy. The NHS is one of Birmingham's biggest employers, its universities teach tens of thousands of students, and there is steady demand for electricians, plumbers, carpenters, decorators and handymen in every neighbourhood, alongside business, transport, hospitality, retail and the city's growing digital and creative industries. People from every background keep these sectors running, and the Israeli community shares in that effort.

Culture and community life

Jewish Israelis in Birmingham mark festivals such as Rosh Hashanah, Passover and Hanukkah, and many are connected to the city's synagogues and Jewish community. Israeli food, including hummus, falafel, shakshuka and sabich, has become popular in Britain, and Israeli music and dance are shared at gatherings.

For anyone who wants to learn more, the best introduction is the simplest one: say hello. Birmingham's communities are at their best when they meet, share food and learn from one another, and the Israeli community is a warm part of that everyday exchange.