Refugee Relief Volunteer Programs in Middle East

I was, probably like some of you, a bit sceptical when initially applying due to the low price compared to other organisations. However, the experience I had was absolutely amazing and I have learnt so much about not only myself, but about different cultures and etiquettes. My program manager, Marissa, was absolutely fantastic at answer all of my questions and adjusting any mistakes I submitted onto my application such as flight number and pick-up time. Despite the huge time difference between Marissa and myself, she was able to reply to my email promptly and with extreme care - I was really at ease throughout the whole process and that made the experience a bunch better. Everything on my volunteering was as described on the program guide and there were no surprises when I landed, everything that happened during my week I was prepared for. I would really recommend this company and I want to thank them once more for the fantastic and truly life-changing experience they provided for me.

I had such a wonderful experience in Split! I met so many amazing people from different countries and made memories that I will definitely never forget. The Youth Support program gave me the opportunity to connect with the local community, experience a different culture and grow personally at the same time. The local team was very welcoming and supportive and I always felt comfortable asking questions or getting help when needed. I especially loved the international atmosphere and meeting people with completely different backgrounds and stories.besides volunteering, I had enough time to explore Split, enjoy the beautiful beaches and nature and experience Croatian culture. This experience helped me step outside my comfort zone, become more independent and see things from new perspectives. I’m really grateful for all the people I met and everything I experienced during my time here. I would definitely recommend this program to anyone who wants to travel, volunteer, meet new people and create unforgettable memories abroad. ❤️

The support and organization of IVHQ was strong and great. Traveling and volunteering with a family of five, with 3 Jr High School kids but was amazing. Very comfortable and things were laid out well, we all felt extremely safe and comfortable the entire experience.

The preparation before trip was so detailed that I don’t have anything to worry about. It got everything listed and made it so much easier to tick off what I’ve done and what they need. The communication with the manager for the volunteer was so smooth and fast, and I was able to get a reply current evening or next morning (due to different timing in different countries). I wanted to change my volunteer from rural teaching to turtle reservation, it was so fast that there wasn’t any problems with the money nor arrangements, everything just went so smoothly, really impressed. The local team there really helped a lot, the driver, the leader, everyone was just so nice, even the cook and the receptionist. This volunteer as itself also helped me a lot on raising awareness for the sea turtles, learnt a lot and really hope to help them consistently. This is such a memorable trip and I hope to do these volunteers with IVHQ next summer with my friends.

I learnt so much about the realities of life in Palestine at Go Palestine, but from a place of relative comfort. The centre is in the heart of the city of Hebron, and from here, it's relatively easy to get to places such as Hebron Old Town (where the Ibrahimi Mosque or Cave of the Patriarchs is), the farming village of Al Burj, Al-Aroub Refugee Camp. My favourite aspect of my experience are the people. I was only here one week but now it feels like I'm leaving my family. Can't wait to come back.

It has been really nice to get to know people from Palestine, speak with them and understand the actual situation. The center provide me of different activities that made it possible. Thank you. The arabic classes are really useful and you can use what you learn in the streets and shops. The volunteers are really nice and kind.

My name is Sara, I am 25 years old, and I volunteered at the Shami Arabic institute for three weeks. At home I am a welder, but I have a love for Amman and have been wanting to do work in Amman and human rights. I decided to choose the Amman program to build up some experience and expand my portfolio, while getting to learn about Jordan and see and experience it in person. I also have always wanted to visit the Middle East in general, and learn Arabic, so to me it was a perfect opportunity that ended up being an amazing experience. Your time in the Institute is based largely on what you set out to do when you come here, with room for change and flexibility. I came to get experience in my chosen field and to learn Arabic, so my days would start off with Arabic lessons, and then afterwards either a trip to a site, a meeting with a journalist/human rights center/local activist, or touring local areas. The Institute will set up things in regards to your program, however they are open if you have specific things you want to achieve, and will work that into your program. The staff here, and the teachers, are fantastic. I had Arabic lessons with Sajida, and just with three weeks at 1-2 hours a day, I am now able to have (fairly simple) conversation in Arabic with Jordanians here in Amman.

I had an amazing experience during my time here. One of the highlights was teaching English to local children. This was such a fun and rewarding experience, and seeing their enthusiasm made the lesson memorable. I also had the opportunity to take part in meaningful cultural exchanges with local people. Everyone I met was incredibly welcoming, kind, and eager to share their stories and traditions, which made my stay even more special. I took Arabic classes as well, and Tala was absolutely wonderful. She has a fantastic way of breaking down vocabulary and grammar into simple, easy to understand explanations, making learning Arabic much less intimidating and genuinely enjoyable. As a solo female traveler, I felt very safe throughout my stay. The support, hospitality, and genuine care I received gave me confidence to explore and fully enjoy the experience. I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking for a meaningful combination of volunteering, language learning, and cultural immersion. It was an unforgettable experience that I will always treasure.

My Jamaica experience was great because it allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone, connect with new people, and make meaningful memories while serving others. I loved being able to learn about the culture, build relationships with the local community, and see the impact that small acts of kindness can have. The experience challenged me to grow in my faith, gratitude, and appreciation for the opportunities I have. It was rewarding to work alongside others who shared the same passion for helping people and creating a positive difference. IVHQ does a great job of creating opportunities for volunteers to make a meaningful impact while also providing support and guidance throughout the experience. They help connect volunteers with local communities, organize programs, and make it possible for people to serve in a way that is safe and structured. I appreciated how they allowed us to experience the culture of Jamaica while still focusing on helping the community. Their organization made the trip feel purposeful and helped create an environment where volunteers could learn, serve, and grow.

My experience with IVHQ absolutely exceeded my expectations and was so amazing, the staff were so friendly and really created a positive and welcoming environment, i felt safe and included by all the other volunteers, my only regret is not staying longer! I will definitely be back in the future!

Overall I had an amazing experience with Ivhq. I volunteered in Cape Town South Africa and I have never been so in love with a place. The culture and the people are truly amazing. I volunteered in a town ship with grade three and loved every minute of it! The kids are so kind and you can tell they truly love the help you have to offer. This experience will forever have such a big impact on me and changed me as a person. I would definitely recommend this to anyone:)

I have already done 3 programs with IVHQ, and this is just the beginning! Costa Rica to teach English, Fiji for childcare, and Thailand to teach. Each program has been magical! The experience is supported, from the application process through post program reflection, and everything in between. Safety, support, encouragement, insight, and perspective are all the things IVHQ provides and more! You get to meet people from around the world, and then come together for a common purpose. Already planning my next adventure, and I can't wait!

I havnt got any complaints from my trip through IVHQ. Every single part of the trip was perfect from the organisation to the welcoming coordinators. I’m only 17 but I felt so safe and supported through the whole process. Thank you for this opportunity!

My volunteer experience in Thailand was truly rewarding. The program was well-organized, and the staff were supportive throughout. What stood out most was the real impact—even small contributions made a difference in the local community. It also helped me grow personally by becoming more adaptable, independent, and open-minded. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone considering volunteering abroad.

Teaching in Ubud, Bali was one of the most beautiful and meaningful experiences of my life. I came expecting to help and give, but I ended up receiving so much more. The children were incredibly kind, respectful, and full of joy. What impacted me the most was how grateful they were for everything;even the smallest things. They would smile constantly, show affection in the purest ways, and even gift me candies as a way to say thank you. Those small gestures meant more than they probably realized. Every day felt special. Being able to connect with them, teach them, laugh with them, and see their excitement to learn was something I will never forget. The environment was welcoming, and the staff made everything smooth and supportive, allowing us to truly focus on making a difference. This experience changed my perspective in the best way possible. It reminded me how powerful kindness, gratitude, and human connection can be. I will always carry these memories with me, and I’m beyond grateful to have been part of something so real and meaningful.

The local guides informed us of a beautiful name for their islands, “The Enchanted Islands”. Given on account of their difficulty to find back in the days of ships and nautical exploration (pre-flight). Such an incredible opportunity to care for unique and endangered gentle creatures. Work was meaningful and rewarding, play time was abundant and fulfilling. One of the most beautiful places I have encountered on this Earth. IVHQ does a tremendous job preparing the traveler for what to expect.

I enjoyed meeting new people from around the world and the fact that we were in the middle of the city like a local which gave it very realistic feel. A Medical internship with Intern Abroad HQ is such a thorough and amazing experience for those who want to travel and learn in their field.

It was by far the best volunteer experience I have done I only wish I could have stayed longer. The culture and food was so amazing and everyone was so welcoming and friendly. This experience I will remember for the rest of my life and have made so many amazing friendships.

Having the chance to live in a completely new environment can be scary at first, but so rewarding in the end. From my experience in Australia, I feel I've gained valuable lessons about my independence, as well as met some amazing people. Karen (my Program Manager and Intern Abroad HQ) was extremely helpful and answered all my question throughout the planning process. Thank you, Karen! Anyone who is lucky enough to have my same host mom is going to be in the BEST hands! I could not thank her enough for being so kind, thoughtful, and over-the-top accommodating.

i just turned 18 and wanted to do something fun. so i looked up places to volunteer, it’s easy to find friends and explore new things, but it’s also a cheap way to travel. so i found a website where you can go volunteering in buenos aires. and i’m telling you: buenos aires is one of my fav cities now, i loved everything about the project and the people were the best i’ve met. i’ve made so many new friends from all over the world in just a short time. i experienced so many different things and saw also places you’d never go if you’d be on vacation. the accommodation was great, the breakfast was really nice and our local coordinater was really kind and chill. it was the best time on life so far!! i learned a lot about myself and grew. and that’s why i’d recommend to go alone. so please go if you’re thinking about it!! you’re not gonna regret it, i’ll promise.