Palestinian Flag
National Flag of Palestine
Palestinian Flag Display

Quick Facts About Palestine and Palestinian Flag
- Adopted:
- Aspect Ratio:
- 2:1 (Length:Width) or 64 units length × 32 units width
- Capital:
- East Jerusalem (claimed), Ramallah (administrative)
- Population:
- Approximately 5.3 million (West Bank and Gaza Strip)
Flag Description
The Palestinian flag is a symbol of honor and pride for all Palestinians. The way flags are displayed in Palestine is not governed by strict laws, but rather by longstanding traditions. The guidelines here reflect international standards and the practices of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and the Palestinian National Authority (PNA).
Symbolism & Meaning of the Palestinian Flag
Black: Symbolizes mourning for injustice and oppression suffered by Palestinians, grief, and the dark nights covering the wounded homeland. White: Symbolizes peace and love, reflecting pure hearts free of hatred. Green: Represents Palestine's lush fields and the promise of growth, prosperity, and future hope. Red: Symbolizes blood, martyrdom, sacrifice, and giving - representing the honor of martyrdom in defense of religion, people, and homeland.
Historical Background of the Palestinian Flag
The flag's colors have deep historical roots in Islamic history. Red was adopted by the Kharijites and later symbolized Muslim rulers in Andalusia (756–1355) and the Hashemites. Black was used by the Abbasid Caliphate (750–1258) for mourning. White was used by the Umayyad Caliphate (661–750). Green symbolized loyalty to Ali and was associated with the Fatimid dynasty (909–1171). In 1916, Sharif Hussein designed the current flag for the Arab Revolt. The Arab Ba'ath Party adopted it in 1947, and Palestinians readopted it in 1948.
Design Elements of the Palestinian Flag
Top Quarter: Black stripe (closest to flagpole). Red Triangle: Occupies the hoist side in the place of honor. Middle Stripe: White stripe below the black. Bottom Stripe: Green stripe occupying the lower half. The flag uses four colors: Red, Black, White, and Green in the specified arrangement.
Usage & Protocol of the Palestinian Flag
Display with dignity and respect at all times. Never use to cover furniture, statues, or tables. Must not be signed, written on, or altered. During raising/lowering, attendees face flag, remove headgear, and stand silently. Black stripe always on top when horizontal; red triangle at top left when vertical. Each flag needs its own pole with red triangle closest to pole. In parades, flag leads; on coffins, red triangle at head (removed before burial). Priority order: Palestinian flag first, then other independent states (alphabetical), then provincial/municipal, then organizational flags. Half-mast for mourning (raise to full first, then lower). On ships: hoisted from stern in port, lowered at sunset unless at sea. On vehicles: mounted on front right side.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the colors of the Palestinian Flag represent?
Black: Symbolizes mourning for injustice and oppression suffered by Palestinians, grief, and the dark nights covering the wounded homeland. White: Symbolizes peace and love, reflecting pure hearts free of hatred. Green: Represents Palestine's lush fields and the promise of growth, prosperity, and future hope. Red: Symbolizes blood, martyrdom, sacrifice, and giving - representing the honor of martyrdom in defense of religion, people, and homeland.
When was the Palestinian Flag adopted?
The Palestine flag was adopted on 1948 - Readopted by the Palestinian people at the Palestinian Congress in Gaza. Officially recognized by the Arab League and the PLO in 1964., marking an important milestone in the country's development as an independent nation.
What is the aspect ratio of the Palestinian Flag?
The Palestine flag has an aspect ratio of 2:1 (Length:Width) or 64 units length × 32 units width, which determines the proportional relationship between its width and height for official display purposes.