Lebanon

The Land of Cedars
and Cuisine

Flag of Lebanon

Lebanon, a country in the Middle East, is renowned for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. Home to iconic landmarks like the ancient ruins of Baalbek, the vibrant capital Beirut, and the majestic Cedar forests, Lebanon offers a unique blend of historical and natural wonders. Lebanese culture is a tapestry of various influences, reflected in its music, art, and world-famous cuisine.

The food features flavorful dishes like tabbouleh, hummus, and shawarma, often enjoyed as part of a mezze spread. Known for its warm hospitality, beautiful Mediterranean coastline, and snow-capped mountains, Lebanon presents a captivating destination that combines ancient heritage with modern vibrancy.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Lebanon.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Lebanon. Passports containing stamps or visas from Israel will result in entry denial due to Lebanon’s non-recognition of Israel.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from a few nations (e.g., Gulf Cooperation Council countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, and Jordan) can enter Lebanon with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from most other nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Lebanon, though many nationalities (e.g., US, Canada, EU countries, Australia) are eligible for a Visa on Arrival (VoA) at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; a Lebanese visa is required unless the traveler’s nationality is visa-exempt.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; a Lebanese visa is required unless visa-exempt, but they may be eligible for a Visa on Arrival.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK do not qualify for visa-free entry; a Lebanese visa is required unless visa-exempt.
  • ID Card Entry: Only citizens of Jordan can enter Lebanon using a valid national ID card instead of a passport under a bilateral agreement.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for up to 1 month (tourist visa, often issued as Visa on Arrival). Can be single-entry, extendable for up to 3 months.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 3 months (e.g., work, study, or family visa). Valid for one year, allowing application for a residence permit with approval from the General Security Directorate.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays for eligible nationalities are limited to 90 days. Visa on Arrival allows a 1-month stay, extendable up to 3 months.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; work visas require sponsorship. Travel to certain areas (e.g., near the Syrian border or South Lebanon) may require special permits due to security concerns.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions, as Lebanon may reintroduce measures like mandatory health declarations or vaccination proof.
Toll

Driving in Lebanon

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, Lebanon has several toll roads, primarily on major highways:
    • Beirut-Tripoli Highway: A key route with toll booths (e.g., at Chekka).
    • Beirut-Damascus Highway (Masnaa Border): Tolls are collected on certain sections.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled. For example, a standard car may pay approximately LBP 5,000-15,000 (Lebanese Pound) per toll booth on the Beirut-Tripoli Highway. For the most current rates, visit the Ministry of Public Works and Transport website: https://www.mpwt.gov.lb/
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Lebanese Pound (LBP) is accepted at all toll booths; US Dollars (USD) may also be accepted due to currency practices in Lebanon.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Not widely accepted; toll booths are primarily cash-only.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: No e-toll system is currently implemented; payment is manual at toll booths.

Driving in Lebanon

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for front-seat occupants, though enforcement is inconsistent.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h
    • Rural roads: 70-90 km/h
    • Highways: 100 km/h
  • Road conditions vary; major highways like Beirut-Tripoli are paved but can be congested, while rural roads (e.g., in the Bekaa Valley or Chouf Mountains) are often narrow, winding, or damaged due to lack of maintenance and recent economic challenges.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license, valid for up to 1 year. A Lebanese license is required for longer stays.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Lebanon does not use a vignette system; tolls are collected at specific points on highways.
  • Road Safety: Driving can be chaotic due to aggressive drivers, poorly marked roads, and frequent power outages affecting traffic lights. Night driving is risky due to poor lighting and potential for sudden obstacles, especially in rural areas.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is reliable in urban areas (e.g., Beirut, Tripoli), but connectivity can be spotty in rural regions; use apps like Google Maps and keep an updated physical map as a backup.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (police, ambulance, fire).

Useful Links

Lebanon Currency

The official currency of Lebanon is the Lebanese Pound (LBP).

  • Note: Due to Lebanon’s ongoing economic crisis, US Dollars (USD) are widely used in parallel, often preferred for larger transactions.

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, 100,000 LBP
  • Coins: 250, 500 LBP (rarely used)
  • Symbol: ل.ل (often written as LBP)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services are available at banks, airports, and money changers in major cities like Beirut and Tripoli.
  • ATMs are available in urban areas but often dispense USD instead of LBP due to the economic crisis; bring cash (USD) to exchange locally, as ATMs may have withdrawal limits or be out of service.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is the primary method of payment, especially due to the economic crisis affecting banking services; USD is widely accepted, with change often given in LBP.
  • Credit/debit cards are accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments in Beirut, but less common in rural areas or smaller businesses due to limited banking infrastructure.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans, though card use may be limited due to banking issues.
  • Carry ample cash (USD for larger payments, LBP for small transactions); exchange rates can vary significantly between official rates and the black market—use authorized changers for safety.
  • Check for currency conversion fees if using cards; the LBP has experienced hyperinflation (e.g., 1 USD ≈ 89,000 LBP on the parallel market as of early 2025).
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Banque du Liban website: https://www.bdl.gov.lb/ (official rates may differ from market rates).
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Lebanon

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Lebanon, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Alcohol consumption is permitted for non-Muslims in licensed venues (e.g., bars, restaurants); public intoxication can lead to fines, especially in conservative areas.
    • Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces and on public transport; enforcement varies.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect religious diversity; dress modestly in conservative areas (e.g., Tripoli, South Lebanon) and at religious sites (e.g., Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque in Beirut). Avoid discussing politics (e.g., Hezbollah, Syrian conflict) due to sensitivities.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal, with penalties including imprisonment. Public displays of affection may attract legal consequences or social disapproval.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites, checkpoints, and government buildings (e.g., Grand Serail in Beirut). Always ask permission for portraits of locals, especially in conservative areas or near religious sites.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 2L spirits.
  • Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over USD 10,000 (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, pork products (in some areas), and materials deemed anti-Lebanese or anti-religious.
  • Counterfeit goods may lead to confiscation or fines.

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport (e.g., Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Lebanese Ministry of Tourism or local authorities.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches (e.g., Ramlet al-Baida in Beirut, Tyre Beach) must allow free access within 5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is mandated but not always implemented.

Key Resources

Lebanon Travel Safety

Lebanon can be safe for travellers in certain areas, with low crime rates against tourists but significant risks due to political instability, economic challenges, and regional tensions. Travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Lebanon.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is possible in crowded areas like markets (e.g., Souk El Tayeb in Beirut) or tourist sites (e.g., Byblos). Violent crime against tourists is rare but can occur amid protests or unrest.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Lebanon is moderately safe in tourist areas like Beirut, Byblos, and Jounieh. Female travelers should dress modestly, avoid isolated areas at night, and be cautious of harassment in busy urban centers.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to aggressive drivers, poorly maintained roads, and frequent power outages affecting traffic lights.
    • Avoid night driving in rural areas (e.g., Bekaa Valley) due to poor lighting and potential for roadblocks or unrest.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory but enforcement is inconsistent.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Tap water is not always safe; drink bottled water.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea; street food (e.g., shawarma, manakish) is usually safe if freshly prepared.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, COVID-19, and rabies (for rural travel).
    • Yellow Fever: Required if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Minimal risk; use insect repellent in rural areas (e.g., Bekaa Valley) to guard against sandflies (leishmaniasis).
  • Altitude Sickness: Risk exists in areas above 2,500 meters (e.g., Mount Hermon at 2,814m). Ascend gradually and stay hydrated if hiking in high-altitude areas.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: High-quality facilities like American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC) offer excellent care in Beirut. Rural areas have limited medical services.
  • Pharmacies: Widely available in cities; carry essential medications for rural travel, as supplies may be limited due to economic issues.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, as rural care is inadequate and political instability may affect access.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 140 | Fire: 175 | Police: 112.
  • Tourist Police (Beirut): +961 1 752 121.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Avoid self-driving in areas prone to unrest (e.g., Tripoli, South Lebanon); use taxis or private drivers in Beirut. Check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for treks in areas like the Qadisha Valley or Chouf Cedar Reserve; political tensions or military activity can pose risks near borders.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect Ramadan customs; avoid eating/drinking in public during fasting hours in conservative areas. Dress modestly, especially in religious sites like Baalbek.
  • Air Quality: Pollution can be high in Beirut; monitor via the World Air Quality Index.

Key Links

Flying to Lebanon

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