Women in Syria must wear burkinis or swimwear that covers their body at public beaches and swimming pools, its tourism ministry has declared.

It is the first time Damascus’ Islamist authorities have issued guidelines for women to observe conservative dress codes since Bashar al-Assad’s autocratic regime was toppled in December, amid concerns the country’s new rulers could implement a more religiously conservative agenda.

The new restrictions were part of a wider decree that detailed public safety guidelines for beaches and swimming pools, such as not spending too long in the sun.

Syrians should wear “appropriate swimwear that respects public decency and the feelings of different segments of society”, it said, which required “more modest swimsuits”.

The order specified that women should wear “the burkini or swimming clothes that cover the body more”.

Men are required to wear shirts under the guidance, which said that “topless clothing is not permitted in public areas outside of swimming areas, hotel lobbies, and food service areas”.

“In public areas outside of beaches and pools, it is preferable to wear loose clothing, covering shoulders and knees, and avoid transparent or overly tight clothing,” it added.

Although “normal Western swimwear” is still permitted at private clubs and luxury hotels, it said the new rules should be followed “with adherence to public morals and within the limits of public taste”.

The ministry said “lifeguards and beach supervisors” would monitor compliance to the guidelines. Repercussions for rule breakers are unclear.