Burkinis mandatory on beaches: Syria targets women’s beachwear, sparks public outcry

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Syria’s Islamist-led government has announced a new set of modesty regulations for beachwear, mandating that women wear burkinis or similarly “decent” clothing that covers most of the body while visiting public beaches. The decision, issued by the Syrian tourism ministry on Tuesday, has sparked mixed reactions across the country, reigniting debates about personal freedoms under the new authorities who took power in December.

The ministry’s directive comes six months after Islamist forces toppled longtime President Bashar al-Assad, marking a sharp turn in Syria’s social and cultural policies. According to the official statement, beachgoers must now adhere to new dress codes intended to reflect “the public’s interest.”

“Women must wear burkinis or swimwear that covers more of the body” at public beaches, the tourism ministry said, also noting that outside swimming areas, women are expected to dress in loose-fitting clothing, while men are prohibited from going topless.

Generally while out in public, Syrians are asked to "wear loose clothing, cover the shoulders and knees and avoid transparent and tight clothing", according to the ministry's statement, which did not specify if and how the rules may be enforced.

The announcement drew immediate and polarized responses on social media and in public discourse. Critics argue the move threatens personal freedoms, while supporters say it aligns with societal values.

“Syria is a moderate and open country, and it should accommodate everyone without restrictions,” a woman named Shaza wrote on Facebook, urging the ministry to “reconsider its decision.”

Yahya Qabisho, a man commenting on the new regulations, expressed his approval: “It’s a duty to respect the culture of Syrian society.”

Some citizens, like Doha, an accountant in Damascus, say they will adapt to the changes pragmatically. “I do not think it is possible to generalise and enforce this decision on everyone,” she told AFP. “I usually wear a bikini at the beach, but I will be more careful in future.”

The tightening of public morality regulations follows growing signs of a broader cultural shift under the new authorities. In May, a nightclub in Damascus was attacked by armed men, resulting in the death of one woman. Additionally, videos circulating online show groups of young men chanting religious slogans and demanding the closure of bars that serve alcohol.

As Syria adjusts to its post-Assad political landscape, the modesty decree appears to reflect the Islamists’ vision for reshaping public life. However, the growing concern among many Syrians suggests that this vision may clash with long-held notions of personal freedom and cultural pluralism.