Muslims Evade Swiss Face-Covering Ban With Surgical Masks
16th April 2025
In the Swiss resort of Interlaken, Muslim women visiting from the Middle East are increasingly using surgical masks to circumvent Switzerland’s face-covering ban, in effect since January 2025. While traditional coverings such as the niqab are prohibited, hygiene masks are not considered a violation.
Emad Boutrous, who runs an Arabic-speaking travel agency, told SRF the masks are “a good compromise” for many visitors. Most are aware of the ban, he says, and for those who are not, he recommends purchasing a mask from a nearby pharmacy.
Local authorities appear unbothered. Interlaken’s liberal mayor, Philippe Ritschard, noted, “People are inventive,” and suggested the police should take a lenient approach.
Police spokesperson Sarah Wahlen confirmed they have little room for manoeuvre: “We don’t know if someone is genuinely ill,” she said.
Despite the legal restrictions, tourism officials report no complaints, and strong booking numbers from the Arab world remain unaffected.