Syrian Tourism Ministry Lifts Ban on Burkini, Affirms No Restrictions on Swimwear

ARK News.. The Syrian Deputy Minister of Tourism for Development and Investment Affairs, Ghiath al-Farrah, announced that no type of swimwear is banned in Syria’s coastal areas. On the contrary, he emphasized that modest swimwear such as the burkini, previously restricted under the former regime, is now officially permitted across Syrian beaches.

In a public statement responding to social media reactions surrounding Decree No. 294—which outlines safety and security procedures for coastal areas—al-Farrah clarified that the regulation is a routine seasonal update. While such guidelines were previously issued by the management of tourist facilities, they are now being formally enacted by the Ministry of Tourism to ensure enforcement and protection for beach goers.

“The decree does not include any language that bans any type of swimwear,” al-Farrah said. “On the contrary, modest Islamic swimwear (burkini)—once forbidden on most beaches during the previous regime—is now allowed.”

The deputy minister explained that the decree's main objective is to enhance visitor safety, particularly concerning appropriate swimming hours, compliance with lifeguard instructions, and attention to warning signs. He rejected the idea that the regulation focuses solely on swimwear, a claim that has circulated widely on social media.

Al-Farrah noted that the decision was made after consulting with specialists and examining best practices in neighboring countries such as Saudi Arabia and Jordan. The decree will be implemented throughout the 2025 summer season, after which the Ministry will review and possibly amend the regulation based on outcomes and public feedback.

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