Middle East
Lebanon
Beirut's food, nightlife and multilingual warmth are compelling, but 2026 brought renewed war with Israel. The south and Bekaa are off-limits, the economy runs on dollar cash, and power cuts are routine.
- US travel advisoryLevel 4Do not travelDetails
- Visa7 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyLBPUS$1 ≈ ل.ل89,500.00Details
- Price level38%of US prices (World Bank PPP)Details
- English2/5LimitedDetails
- PlugsType A, B, C, D, G230 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency112Police 112 · Ambulance 140 · Fire 175
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledTap water isn't drinkable; locals buy bottled or delivered water.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedBeirut once had the Arab world's most open queer scene, but bans and vigilante attacks since 2023 pushed it underground.Details
- Internet22 MbpsMedian fixed broadband · mobile 37 MbpsDetails
- DrivingOn the rightA 1968 IDP or your home licence is accepted. Traffic is chaotic and lights often off; many hire a driver.
Where to go in Lebanon
2 places with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
When to visit Lebanon
April–June and September–November; July–August is hot, humid and busy with the diaspora. Skiing at Mzaar runs roughly December–March.
Good to know
Entry
- Many nationalities get a free one-month visa on arrival at Beirut airport, extendable at General Security offices.
- Any evidence of travel to Israel can mean refusal, even with a valid visa.
- Arrivals are checked against a wanted-persons database; name matches can mean delays.
- Overstay fines are paid in Lebanese pounds at the airport before security.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Don't photograph in Hezbollah areas or near military sites; detentions happen.
- Flying drones without permission is illegal.
- Even small amounts of drugs bring prison sentences.
Etiquette
- Avoid sectarian and political debates; wartime losses are personal for many.
- Dress modestly at mosques and churches; Beirut nightlife dress is liberal.
- Greetings mix Arabic, French and English; follow your host's lead.
Tipping
Leave 10–15% in restaurants, often in dollars; tip valet parkers and delivery riders.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Lebanon
- Lebanese General Directorate of General Security
- Speedtest Global Index: Lebanon
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.