Gur Hasidic Sect Lifts Ban on Children Entering Arad Mall With Restrictions

After months of barring children from the "RD" commercial complex in Arad, the educational institutions of the Gur Hasidic sect have officially informed parents of a policy change. The decision follows a meeting with "senior educators of the community" who inspected the premises and gave conditional approval after necessary arrangements were made for children's entry under parental supervision.

The reopening, however, highlights a complex and unique situation with lingering questions. Entry is governed by a strict set of rules and warnings, reflecting a separation from the general public, even in 2026. For instance, the purpose of visits is limited strictly to shopping, with any recreational activity forbidden. Children are only permitted entry when accompanied directly by a parent, and cannot enter with older siblings alone, according to a distributed leaflet.

Furthermore, parents and children are permitted to enter only "An'sh" stores, meaning those belonging to the Hasidic community. Entry into chain stores and shops not affiliated with the sect is strictly prohibited. An unusual warning was also issued to parents: "Remember that people not from An'sh circulate in the place, so children must be watched with extra vigilance."

The announcement, signed by several rabbis and educational directors from the "Or Simcha" institutions in Arad, reignites the debate on how modern commercial spaces coexist with insular communities.