New strict rules for women have been introduced on Syrian beaches

A new, more conservative dress code has come into effect for women visiting public beaches and swimming pools in Syria. The decision, made by the country's Ministry of Tourism, is seen as one of the latest major changes in cultural and social life in Syria.

Now, women are required to wear a burqa — a special swimsuit that covers the entire body and hair — on all public beaches. This restriction applies not only to locals but also to tourists. According to the law, women are required to wear a loose-fitting, loose-fitting dress, such as a wide-brimmed hat or robe, over their swimsuits on the beach and in other areas.

The decision was introduced after the Islamist rebels took control of the country in December 2024, and it is now claimed that the new rules were adopted taking into account "the interests of the community and the taste of society." Tourism Minister Mazen al-Salhani said that everyone — regardless of nationality or age — must follow the new rules on public beaches and swimming pools.

These measures are being implemented to respect the general tastes and values of society and the feelings of all segments of society. In particular, women are required to wear loose and covered clothing outside of their time at the beach and in water bodies. Wearing a special burqa or a loose-fitting robe for bathing is mandatory not only for Syrian women, but also for foreign tourists.

Men are also subject to special requirements. According to the new regulations, men must wear shirts and loose, covering clothing outside of the beach, pool, and dining areas. It is also recommended to avoid clothing that shows the shoulders and knees, is transparent, or is too tight.

Another important point is that these rules apply mainly to public places. On private beaches, in hotels of 4 stars and above, and in international and premium resorts, traditional Western-style swimwear is allowed. However, on public beaches and in public swimming pools, special security officers and monitors were deployed to ensure that the new order was not violated.

Although this new order in Syria has caused controversy, local communities and authorities insist that it was introduced based on national values, religious norms and public needs. Special services have established constant control over compliance with the order on beaches and pools.

Thus, new, strict and traditional requirements for women and men on beaches and pools in Syria have come into force. It is possible that this innovation will affect not only the internal life of the country, but also the international tourist flow. Within the framework of the new rules, visitors to the country are advised to treat local culture and laws with respect.