British tourists hit by £994 fine warning for popular holiday hotspot

British tourists travelling to Malta should be aware of this unknown rule that could land them with a hefty fine. Malta is currently heading into its tourism peak and with average temperatures hitting up to 33C this month - and it appears that many people, especially in tourists areas, are struggling to deal with it.

The number of people walking around the streets in swimwear appears to be increasing as summer has started - and residents are not happy about it. According to Maltese Law "nudity and indecency is not permitted". Criminal Code 338q addresses indecent exposure in public places such as harbours, seashores and other public areas. It notes that individuals who expose themselves or are indecently dressed are committing a minor criminal offence.

This means that those wearing swimwear in public areas outside of designated beaches are breaking the law. When it comes to the regulation, there is no set fine for breaching the specific rule. However, the maximum "multa" (fine in Malta) that a person can pay is 1,164.69 euros, which is around £993.88.

Last year, the issue gained a lot of attention when David Pace O'Shea from Sliema, a seaside town in Malta, put up signs around the town with the message: "No swimwear on our streets."

It was reported that 29 people have been fined for walking around in swimwear and being "indecently dressed" in public since January 2024.

While the battle between residents and beachgoers takes place every year, there is the "economic argument" that stopping people from wearing swimwear on the streets is "harassment and damaging to the tourist industry," Times of Malta reports.

Despite the concerns for the tourist industry, residents continue to voice their frustration over tourists who shop and dine in minimal clothing whilst visiting the country.

Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri has emphasised that police should not be turned into "morality police" and "should focus more on core duties".