Israel’s Ministry of Religious Services, Jerusalem Municipality and the Council of Cemeteries have begun logistical preparations for tens of thousands of worshippers expected to visit the grave of Rabbi Chaim ben Attar, known as the Or HaChaim HaKadosh, on Mount of Olives next week. The annual pilgrimage will take place on Monday and Tuesday, 15 and 16 Tammuz, beginning Monday evening and continuing nonstop into Tuesday.
Organizers say safety is the top priority this year. Preparations now include setting up spacious, lit and shaded prayer platforms to reduce crowding during peak hours. Because of the site’s terrain and the need to protect visitors, access will be by public transportation only, with a complete ban on private cars and private buses reaching Mount of Olives.
To serve the public, dedicated shuttle lines 551 and 552 will run from Ramat Junction via Givat HaMivtar and Bar Lev Junction to Mount of Olives. On Monday they will operate from 6:30 p.m. to 1:00 a.m., and on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Line 553 will also run from the light rail station at Givat HaMivtar, and special shuttles will be available from the Even HaSton station during busy periods.
The public has been asked to check details in advance, be patient and follow the instructions of marshals on site. Ministry director general Yehuda Avidan said the ministry sees it as “a great privilege” to make Israel’s heritage and holy sites accessible, adding that the partners are investing resources and careful planning so everyone who wants to pray there can do so “dignified and safely.” Council of Cemeteries director general Tzuri'el Krispel said this is one of the most complex logistical operations they manage, and Jerusalem municipal official Yitzhak Hanau said the city is coordinating with all emergency and rescue services to prepare infrastructure ahead of time under the strictest safety rules.
