Against expectations, Ramallah is gaining notice for something more than the enduring Arab-Israeli conflict. The city, which functions as the West Bank’s political center, is beginning to compete with Tel Aviv, Beirut and Amman as a regional nightlife champion, according to the New York Times.

Young people from North America, Europe and the Palestinian diaspora are driving the change. New clubs are transforming spaces that take advantage of the city’s mix of modern high-rise, restored Ottoman, and British-mandate era art deco architecture. Spots the Times recommends include top club Snowbar and Orjuwan, an Italian-Palestinian fusion restaurant and bar.