World’s least tattoo-friendly countries

Tuesday, June 20, 2023

Although tattoos can be seen as positive means of self-expression in many areas of the world, there are some countries that do not consider tattoo as a form of art.

When you leave the country sporting tattoos, it’s important to know what to expect in your visiting country.

While the general trend in favour of tattoos is a global phenomenon, there are countries where tattoos are still considered taboo, offensive or illegal.

Have a look at six countries around the world whose attitudes toward tattoos might complicate your future travel plans.

United Arab Emirates

The tattoo laws in Dubai make tattooing illegal and visible tattoos usually have to be covered in public. United Arab Emirates (UAE) Islamic dress code policy will not penalise foreigners for getting tattooed.

However, The General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowment considers it a form of self-injury and thus it is forbidden unless performed by licensed physicians. Also, the tourists can be banned for life if their tattoo is offensive under the UAE federal law.

Japan

Japan made tattooing illegal during the Meiji period in 1872, but currently Japan doesn’t ban tattoos or tattoo content. However, Japanese stores have forbidden tattoos on customers on a wider scale than any other country that doesn’t have tattoo laws.

The public swimming pools, bath houses, gyms, hotels, resorts, bars, restaurants, and some retail stores ban tattoos that are visible on customers. This self-imposed Japan tattoo ban by most of the businesses is a rare but shocking surprise to tourists.

Iran

Iran has outlawed tattoos as well as spiky haircuts and the use of sun-beds on the grounds that they imply “devil worship”. The conservative Iranians see these movements as a sign of westernisation, which violate the Islamic system’s regulations. Iran is governed by a strict interpretation of Sharia law, with agencies expected to act on every individual case of violation in public life.

South Korea

South Korea has far more relaxation than North Korea, but when it comes to the contents of a tattoo, they have the same rules: technically, they’re illegal.

The local laws dictate that one needs to be a physician to apply a tattoo, although recent changes have made it possible for certified beauticians to apply permanent make-up tattoos.

Sri Lanka & Thailand

The tattoos that depict Buddhist imagery can be considered offensive in Sri Lanka, so be sure not to display any while travelling. 

Any tattoos depicting elements of Buddhist culture or, more grievously, the Buddha himself, could be seen as blasphemous and culturally insensitive – to the point of condemnation. The offenses are more serious in Sri Lanka than Thailand, where they are not enforced as often.

Both of these countries are major tourist destinations, somewhat tempering the potential punishment that might await an unsuspecting traveller.

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