Lisbon - Portugal
As of September 23, Law No. 58 of 2026 will be implemented in Portugal, which prohibits the use of clothing and coverings intended to hide the face or obstruct its appearance in the streets, public places, service places, and sporting activities. The legislation aims to define the rules for security compliance and coordinate behavior in spaces available to the public. The financial penalties resulting from a violation range from 150 to 750 euros in cases of negligence, and rise to 3,000 euros in the event of proof of intent.

Specific exceptions are specified by law

Portuguese legislation was keen to take into account the circumstances excluded from the sanctions, as the ban does not extend to cases justified by health, professional, artistic, entertainment or advertising reasons, as well as harsh climatic conditions and safety requirements. Travelers on commercial aircraft, and visitors inside diplomatic and consular facilities, in addition to places of worship and sacred sites, are also excluded from this ban, which ensures clear flexibility in specific contexts.

Implications for tourists, airlines, and Arab tourism
This new legislation imposes on Arab tourists the need to carefully review the laws and regulatory obligations of European destinations before departure, to avoid unexpected financial fines that may affect the trip budget and its tourism program. At the investment and professional level, the decision requires Arab tourism companies and travel agencies to develop pre-travel awareness services and inform customers of regulatory controls, which turns travel risk management and compliance with local legislation into an essential part of the quality of services provided to travelers.