CNN
–
Syria issued a new conservative dress code on Tuesday. Women were asked to wear bilkini and full-bodied swimsuits on all public beaches. This is the latest cultural change since Muslim-led rebels overthrew dictator Bashar al-Assad’s regime last December.
The Ministry of Tourism said the new guidelines were implemented in “public interest requirements.”
“Whether tourists or locals, visitors to public beaches and pools should wear appropriate swimsuits that take into account the taste of public and the sensibilities of various segments of society,” Tourism Minister Magen Al Sarahani said in a directive posted on Facebook.
“In public beaches and pools (barkini and swimsuits that cover more body) you need more modest swimsuits,” the command says, “When traveling between the beach and other places, you should wear a beach cover-up or loose robe (for women) over your swimsuit.”
Men need to wear shirts under new guidance. It states that “topless clothing is not permitted in public areas outside swimming areas, hotel lobbies and food service areas.”
“In public areas outside the beach or pool, it is desirable to wear loose clothing, cover the shoulders and knees, and avoid clear or excessively tight clothing,” the order said.
However, the ministry said resorts and hotels are “classified as international and premium (4 stars)” and that typical western swimsuits are permitted at private beaches and swimming pools.
It is unclear what impact will be those who do not follow the guidelines, but the department said “lifeguards and beach supervisors” will monitor people and ensure compliance.
The new regulations reflect the impact of Hayat Taharil al-Sham (HTS), the Islamist coalition that currently leads the transitional government in Syria. Previously known as the Alnus La Front, HTS has been designated as a terrorist group by the US and the UK.
Interim Syrian Ahmad Alshara, who signed the dress code directive, led the HTS in a lightning attack that led to the collapse of Assad, which had been in power for decades.
In March, Alshara signed the interim constitution, which mandates Islamist control during the five-year transition period. Alshara said in December that it could take three years to rewrite the Syrian constitution, and that elections could take place within five years.
U.S.-based Human Rights Watch said in March that “a wide range of authority will raise serious concerns about the rule of law and the durability of human rights protections unless explicit safeguards are introduced.”
Tourism Minister Al Sarhani, who recently courted Qatar and Saudi Arabian investors for a “billion dollar” tourism project, has framed the rules as a respect for Syria’s cultural, social and religious diversity. ”
The announcement came amid a push to revive Syrian tourism industry after US sanctions were lifted in May 2025.