While countries like Japan and the UAE don’t prohibit tattooed tourists from entering, visitors might encounter issues if they display their tattoos in public. Although tattoos are popular in many countries today, not everyone accepts this art form. Some nations have strict policies regarding tattoos, and their citizens often view tattooed tourists unfavorably.
Here are 7 countries less friendly toward tattoos, as advised by the well-known Canadian-based travel website, The Travel. (The Travel is a website specializing in travel, based in Canada, that provides information on unique, lesser-known destinations and wildlife.)
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s official religion is Sunni Islam, with its legal system rooted in Islamic Sharia law. Under Sharia, tattoos are considered haram, or forbidden, thus making them unsuitable in the country. If your tattoos are not on your face or hands, tourism authorities recommend covering them in public places.
UAE
Although some areas in the UAE, such as Bahrain and Dubai, are more relaxed than Saudi Arabia, this doesn’t mean they have adopted Western views on tattoos. While not illegal, tattoos are still considered an act of “self-harm” under Islamic law and are viewed as immoral. Tourists won’t be deported from the UAE for having tattoos. However, individuals with tattoos on their faces or hands are often denied entry into buildings like mosques or other religious sites. Therefore, it’s crucial to research the dos and don’ts when traveling in the Middle East to understand how to dress and behave in public.
Furthermore, most companies in the region will refuse to hire individuals with visible tattoos. If you have tattoos and are seeking employment in a place like Dubai, tattoo removal is often the first step.
Iran
Not all tattoos are forbidden in Iran, but some may be considered offensive. In 2018, some politicians attempted to ban tattooing entirely, but recent regulations have become more flexible. Consequently, tattoos—though still considered haram—are not entirely prohibited, provided they are not offensive, such as anti-Islamic symbols. Views on tattoos also vary between Sunni and Shia Muslims. Some believe that religious tattoos expressing faith are not haram. However, when traveling through any Islamic country, it’s always best to cover tattooed areas of your body.
Turkey
Turkey does not ban tattoos, and students in many schools now have tattoos and piercings. Nevertheless, many citizens still hold strong negative opinions about tattoos, so visitors should cover their tattoos if they plan to visit sacred sites like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a beautiful tropical paradise to visit, provided tourists do not have Buddhist tattoos. This nation reveres Buddhism, and tattooing Buddhist symbols or images is strictly prohibited. Having such tattoos can lead to deportation or trouble for visitors. In 2014, a British nurse was deported from Sri Lanka for having a Buddha tattoo on her arm. Besides Buddhist-themed tattoos, other tattoos are generally not an issue here.
Myanmar
Similar to Sri Lanka, Myanmar is a devout Buddhist nation that highly values its official religion. While tattoos are quite common in many parts of the country, tattooing Buddhist symbols—especially Buddha head images—is considered extremely offensive. In 2016, a Spanish tourist with a Buddha tattoo on his leg was deported after monks discovered it and reported him to the Bagan police.
Japan
Japan will not deny entry to tattooed individuals, but these visitors should be prepared to be denied access to some public areas and attractions. Beaches, public swimming pools, hot springs, saunas, and spas typically do not permit tattoos. Historically, Japanese people have associated tattoos with the Yakuza—the country’s organized crime groups. Therefore, public spaces often prohibit tattooed individuals to avoid causing anxiety or offense to customers or to prevent potential violence.
