Following Bashar al-Assad's ouster in Syria, a new Islamic government has imposed a ban on women wearing swimsuits. Burkinis are now mandatory on public beaches, and a dress code has also been implemented for men.
Syria: After the removal of Bashar al-Assad from power, a new interim government led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) Islamic rebel group has taken control of Syria. On Tuesday, the government's head, Ahmad al-Shara, implemented a new dress code prohibiting women from wearing swimsuits in public.
Burkinis Now Mandatory
Under the new regulations, women are no longer permitted to wear traditional swimsuits on public beaches and swimming pools. Instead, they must wear swimwear that covers their entire bodies, known as a burkini.
Tourism Minister Issues Guidelines
Syria's interim Tourism Minister, Mazen al-Salhani, confirmed the decision, stating that the new dress code considers the sensitivities of various segments of society. In a Facebook post, he stated, "It is mandatory for all tourists and locals to wear appropriate and modest swimwear on beaches and pools."
Clothing Instructions Outside Beaches
Another rule for women mandates the wearing of a cover-up or loose clothing over their swimsuits when leaving the water. This aims to ensure that no one's religious or social sensibilities are offended in public areas.
Regulations for Men
Along with women, men are also subject to stricter dress guidelines. They are no longer permitted to be shirtless in public places, hotel lobbies, and restaurants.
The dress code requires men to wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees, advising against wearing transparent or tight-fitting garments.
Exemption for Premium Hotels
The government clarified that international resorts, premium hotels, and private pools will allow Western dress codes; women may wear traditional swimsuits in these locations. The Tourism Ministry added that beach and pool staff are responsible for enforcing these rules strictly.
Growing Influence of HTS and the Stamp of Islamic Rule
This decision indicates the growing influence of a radical Islamic regime in Syria. The HTS organization, which ousted Assad, now governs the country. Previously known as the al-Nusra Front, it has been designated a terrorist organization by the United States and the United Kingdom.
Who is Ahmad al-Shara?
Syria's interim president, Ahmad al-Shara, is the top leader of HTS and signed the new dress code. In March 2025, he also signed an interim constitution establishing Islamic rule in Syria for the next five years.
