Approximately two thousand worshippers have already arrived in Uman ahead of Rosh Hashanah, with expectations of tens of thousands of visitors. However, this year, the journey to the site is expected to be particularly complex: construction at the Polish border crossing, biometric checks, a night curfew, a ban on motor vehicles, and strict restrictions in the vicinity of the site.
The preparations for Rosh Hashanah in Uman are entering the final stretch. About two thousand worshippers have already arrived in the Ukrainian city and have begun preparations for the holiday, with estimates suggesting that tens of thousands of people are expected to stay in the city near the tomb of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov.
The mass pilgrimage is taking place again this year while the war in Ukraine continues. Alongside the complex journey and expected border congestion, visitors will be required to adhere to a long list of security instructions and movement restrictions.
Poland Warns: Avoid Medyka-Shehyni Crossing
The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs is urging travelers to Uman to avoid using the Medyka-Shehyni border crossing between Poland and Ukraine as much as possible.
Extensive infrastructure work is taking place at the site, limiting bus movement and potentially causing prolonged delays and heavy congestion. Travelers and organizers of the transport are advised to consider alternative border crossing points, including Korczowa and Budomierz.
It is important to clarify that according to reports, the crossing is not completely closed to all traffic, but its activity is limited, and the recommendation is to avoid it. Therefore, travelers whose route passes through Poland are asked to check in advance with the transport company which border crossing they plan to use.
Romania Strengthens Border Teams
Meanwhile, Romania is preparing for the arrival of thousands of travelers who will make their way to Ukraine through the country’s airports and border crossings.
In a special preparation meeting, representatives of the Romanian government, border police, law enforcement and security bodies, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and representatives of the Breslov Union in Uman, led by Rabbi Nathan Ben Nun, participated.
As part of the preparations, assistance representatives and translators will be stationed at key points, refreshment areas will be established, and teams at the land border crossings with Ukraine will be reinforced. The goal is to minimize waiting times as much as possible and maintain orderly movement of buses and travelers.
However, even after the reinforcement, long wait times may still occur, especially during hours when multiple flights land in close succession and a large number of buses arrive at the border simultaneously. The expected congestion at Ben Gurion Airport and flights to Uman also require travelers to prepare in advance.
The EES System May Prolong Checks
Another factor that may affect the journey to Uman this year is the European Entry and Exit System (EES), which became fully operational in the European Union during April 2026.
The system has replaced manual passport stamping and digitally records the entry and exit of non-EU citizens. Israelis without a European passport may be required to scan their passport, undergo facial recognition, and provide fingerprints.
Registration is conducted at the border crossing, with no need to register online or pay in advance. However, during the first registration, the process may take several minutes per traveler. When buses with dozens of passengers are involved, the checks could significantly extend crossing times.
Children under the age of 12 are exempt from fingerprinting, but their details are still recorded in the system according to regulations. Additional information can also be found in the Guide to Border and Passport Control.
Night Curfew: No Movement from Midnight to 05:00
Due to the war and military regime in Ukraine, authorities clarify that security instructions will be enforced without compromise.
According to the Israeli Foreign Ministry’s guidelines for Rosh Hashanah 5787, a night curfew will be in effect in Uman from midnight until 05:00 AM during the holiday period. During these hours, it is prohibited to roam the streets, and individuals must remain at their lodging.
Vehicle movement during the curfew will only be allowed in approved cases and coordinated with local security forces. Violating the curfew may lead to detention, investigation, or enforcement actions by the Ukrainian police.
Prohibition on Riding Scooters and Motorized Vehicles
This year, the use of motorized scooters, mopeds, ATVs, and three-wheeled vehicles in the vicinity of the site has been prohibited.
This means that those accustomed to using a scooter to quickly travel between lodging, dining areas, and the site will not be able to do so. Visitors are requested to prepare for walking or to use only transportation methods approved by the authorities.
Additionally, the use of fireworks, pyrotechnic devices, and lasers is prohibited. There is also a ban on bringing weapons, knives, sharp objects, and even toys or items that simulate weapons and explosives.
Alcohol Ban in the Pilgrimage Area
The local police prohibit the carrying, sale, and consumption of alcoholic beverages in the pilgrimage area. The ban aims to prevent disturbances and enable security forces to manage the large concentration of visitors.
The authorities have announced a zero-tolerance policy towards anyone who violates the guidelines. All visitors are required to carry their passports at all times and present them upon request by security forces.
In the event of an alarm, one should immediately enter a protected area and follow local instructions. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterates that it cannot guarantee the safety of visitors in Ukraine during the war.
Beware of Tourist Tax Payment Scams
The State Agency for Tourism Development in Ukraine warns against individuals attempting to collect the tourist tax from visitors through unauthorized accounts or links.
The tax should only be paid through official channels and accounts designated by the Uman City Council. Do not transfer money to private individuals or provide credit card information via unidentified message links.
It is recommended to keep the payment confirmation and present it if necessary during your stay in the city.
What to Check Before Departing for Uman?
Travelers are advised to verify in advance through which country they are entering Ukraine, which border crossing they are expected to use, and the planned travel times. Consider significant delays and avoid scheduling a return flight too close to the departure time from Uman.
Always carry your passport, bring food and drink for the journey, maintain a charged phone battery, and follow updates from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, local authorities, and organizing bodies.
Guidelines may change according to the security situation, so it is important to check them again both shortly before departure and during your stay in Ukraine.
Sources: Bhol – Yanki Farber, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Guidelines for Rosh Hashanah in Uman, Official Information on EES System
Photo: Miki Spitzer
