Syrian government tells women to dress modestly, preferably in burkinis, when swimming

Ministry of Tourism's new guidelines raise fears of growing conservatism under new government

A man riding a jet-ski as people from Latakia and other parts of Syria gather at the beach in the coastal Mediterranean city of Latakia. AFP

Syrian authorities have issued directives urging women to wear modest swimwear on public beaches, with a particular recommendation for burkinis.

The latest regulation, published on Tuesday by the Ministry of Tourism, appeared six months after rebel forces entered Damascus, led by now President Ahmad Al Shara, and overthrew the regime of Bashar Al Assad.

“Visitors to public beaches and pools, whether tourists or locals, are required to wear appropriate swimwear that takes into account public taste and the sensibilities of various segments of society,” Minister of Tourism Mazen Al Salhani said in a statement.

“More modest swimwear is required at public beaches and pools (burkinis or swimsuits that cover more of the body).”

It was also necessary when moving between places to “wear a beach cover-up or loose-fitting robe (for women) over swimsuits”, the statement added.

Men are required to wear shirts when not swimming under the new guidance, which said that “topless clothing is not permitted in public areas”.

“In public areas outside of beaches and pools, it is preferable to wear loose clothing, covering shoulders and knees, and avoid transparent or overly tight clothing,” said the statement.

The guidelines have been made in “the requirements of public interest”.

The ministry said that “western swimwear” can be worn in resorts and hotels “classified as international and premium (four-star)” and on private beaches. It is only permitted if “appropriate behaviour is adhered to”.

Other establishments must adhere to the modesty rules.

“It’s a very frustrating decision, and it’s upsetting because if no one objects to this, similar rules will be implemented in the future,” Maya, a Druze from Jaramana, told The National.

“I’m not going to wear a burkini – no way. I'm too scared to go to the beach this year- I’m afraid they’ll arrest me if I don’t. The sad part is, I used to go to the beach to forget everything stressful about Syria. Now, they’ve taken that away from us,” she said.

“The only solution is to go to one of the fancy hotels, but no one can afford them. I get paid $50 a day, and those places charge $100 a night.”

The new regulations come as the new Syrian government pushes to revive its tourism sector following the lifting of US sanctions in May.

Since the takeover by the new authorities, decisions that could affect the freedoms of minorities and women have been under scrutiny.

Mixed public reaction

Syrians have expressed concerns on social media, especially about their personal freedom and having the right to choose how they present themselves to society.

“Syria has always been a moderate and open country to all kinds of people and background, and it should accommodate everyone without restrictions,” Hadeel Ahmed, a Syrian doctor, said on X.

“What makes you think that people have money to go to resorts and feel comfortable to wear as they please. The public should be able to wear what they want,” she said.

Walid Baleh, who comes from the coastal city of Latakia, said the ministry should have other priorities.

“I think there are many things that the minister could priorities such as rehabilitating tourist areas. Opening of new tourist facilities,” Mr Baleh said on X.

But some Syrian supported the new rules. Mohammed Al Karimi said on X that there was a “duty” to respect the “culture of Syrian society”.