On Tuesday, Syria’s Tourism Ministry introduced a new conservative dress code requiring women to wear burkinis or full-body swimwear at all public beaches. This regulation marks a significant cultural change following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime last December, which was overthrown by Islamist-led rebels.
According to the ministry’s statement, the guidelines were implemented in line with “the requirements of public interest.”
“Visitors to public beaches and pools, including both locals and tourists, are expected to wear swimwear that aligns with public tastes and cultural sensitivities,” said Tourism Minister Mazen al-Salhani in a Facebook post.
The directive outlines that “more modest swimwear, such as burkinis or full-body suits, is mandatory at public beaches and pools.” Additionally, women must wear a beach cover-up or loose-fitting robe when walking between the beach and other public spaces.
The dress code also includes new requirements for men, who are now required to wear shirts outside of designated swimming zones. “Topless clothing is not allowed in public areas beyond beaches, pools, hotel lobbies, and food service locations,” the ministry noted.
Beyond swimwear, the directive encourages modest attire in general public spaces. It advises people to wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the shoulders and knees and to avoid outfits that are transparent or excessively tight.
However, the guidelines allow more lenient attire in select private and international venues. The ministry stated that “Western-style swimwear remains permissible at international-classified resorts and hotels (4-star and above) as well as at private beaches and pools.”
While the directive does not specify the penalties for non-compliance, it does indicate that lifeguards and beach supervisors will be tasked with monitoring and ensuring adherence to the rules.
The shift in public policy reflects the growing influence of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an Islamist coalition now leading Syria’s transitional government. Formerly known as the Al-Nusra Front, HTS is classified as a terrorist organization by both the United States and the United Kingdom.
Ahmad al-Sharaa, the interim Syrian president and a former HTS leader, endorsed the new dress-code directive. Al-Sharaa played a central role in HTS’s rapid military campaign that led to Assad’s ousting, ending his decades-long rule.
Earlier this year, in March, al-Sharaa signed an interim constitution that instituted Islamic governance during a five-year transitional period. He also noted in December that the drafting of a permanent constitution could take up to three years, with national elections projected to follow within five years.
In response to the developments, Human Rights Watch raised concerns in March about al-Sharaa’s extensive powers. The organization warned that without proper legal safeguards, the country might face setbacks in human rights and the rule of law.
Minister al-Salhani has continued to pursue foreign investment, particularly from Qatari and Saudi sources, for tourism-related developments. He positioned the new regulations as a reflection of Syria’s “cultural, social, and religious diversity.”
The announcement coincides with Syria’s efforts to boost its tourism sector, following the lifting of U.S. sanctions in May 2025. U.S. President Donald Trump referred to the move as a “chance at greatness” for the war-torn country.
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