Lebanon travel guide

Travel Advice

 Areas where FCDO advises against travel

FCDO continues to advise against all travel to Lebanon. If you are currently in Lebanon, we encourage you to leave, while commercial options remain available.

For further information on why we advise against travel, see Conflict affecting Lebanon and Regional risks.

Conflict affecting Lebanon

FCDO advises against all travel to Lebanon due to risks associated with the ongoing conflict between Israel, Lebanese Hizballah and other non-state actors in Lebanon and advises anyone in Lebanon to leave now. Tensions are high and the situation could deteriorate with little warning. Do not rely on FCDO being able to evacuate you in an emergency. The closure or disruption of roads and exit routes at short notice could affect your ability to leave the country. In line with the FCDO’s existing advice against all travel to Syria and to the Northern Border region of Israel, the FCDO advises against leaving Lebanon through land border crossings.

The security situation presents a range of serious risks to British Nationals in Lebanon, including the following.

Military activity across Lebanon

There are ongoing mortar and artillery exchanges and airstrikes across Lebanon, primarily on the boundary with Israel but also in other parts of the country, including Beirut, the Beqaa Valley and locations north of the Litani river. On 30 September, Israel launched a ground incursion in southern Lebanon. The Israeli Defence Force has warned people in Lebanon not to move south of the Awali River. In addition, ‘The Washington Institute’ provides an online map of strikes in Lebanon which may be helpful to understand recently affected areas.

Air-strikes in Beirut

Israel is conducting targeted air strikes against Beirut. The majority of these attacks are in the southern suburbs (Dahiye) area but there have been strikes in central Beirut including on buildings close to the airport road and in the city centre. Attacks outside of these areas cannot be ruled out. Strikes have resulted in civilian casualties and the destruction of residential buildings. You should not travel to the southern suburbs of Beirut and should shelter in place during strikes.

Access to Beirut airport

There is a risk that access to the airport may be disrupted, whether by traffic congestion, temporary road blocks or closure caused by Israeli airstrikes nearby. If you are travelling to the airport, check the local security situation and only make the journey if you judge it safe to do so. Remain alert to local conditions as these could change quickly.  

If you are a British National in Lebanon, we encourage you to book the next available flight to leave, even if it is not a direct route. You should check with airlines and travel companies for updates on flight cancellations on a regular basis. Give yourself plenty of time at the airport to allow for crowding in the airport terminal or slower operational delivery due to higher demand on staff. Make sure your travel documents and those of your family are current. If the situation deteriorates, it might not be possible to issue a passport in time for any journey you might plan.

Civil disorder

Celebratory gunfire is common in Lebanon and there is a risk to British Nationals from gunfire being fired in residential areas in reaction to major regional developments. If you hear gunfire, take cover immediately. Protests related to regional events could also take place at short notice and may escalate quickly. Exercise caution, avoid demonstrations, and monitor local media for developments.

Wider regional escalation

On 1 October, Iran launched nearly 200 ballistic missiles at Israel. On 26 October, Israel carried out military strikes against Iran. The situation could escalate quickly and pose risks for the wider region. You should exercise caution, avoid demonstrations, and monitor local media for developments.

Local support

The Embassy remains open as normal and continues with essential work, including full services to British nationals. Due to the security situation, we have temporarily reduced the number of diplomatic staff in Lebanon and withdrawn family members of British Embassy staff.

The UK government chartered four flights from Beirut, helping more than 430 people to leave Lebanon. Due to reduced demand and increased commercial capacity no further flights are scheduled.

Keep up to date with local and international media including TV and radio stations such as Virgin Radio Lebanon (FM 89.5) and Voice of Lebanon / Sawt Lubnan (FM 100.3 - 100.5) which may be useful sources of information on any developments.

You should have a personal emergency plan that does not rely on the UK government. This may include the ability to leave quickly or to shelter in place if you judge it necessary and safe to do so.

Read FCDO advice on what to do if you’re affected by a crisis abroad and how to prepare.

Help and support in Lebanon

You can contact the emergency services by calling 112.

If you need urgent help (for example, you’ve been attacked, arrested or someone has died), call +961 (0)1 960 800.

Travel insurance 

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. You can also get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK who choose to travel against FCDO advice. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Lebanon’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Lebanon set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Lebanese Embassy in the UK.

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Lebanon. 

Passport validity requirements

Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months from the date you enter Lebanon.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document, or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Checks at border control

Visa requirements

British citizens can normally apply for a free single-entry tourist or family visit visa on arrival at Beirut airport. A tourist visa is valid for one month from the date of entry. Travellers can extend their visa for up to three months at the General Security offices.

British citizens can also obtain a visa from the Lebanese Embassy in London. These may be valid for a different time period. In April 2024, Lebanese authorities introduced new increased rates for residence permits of foreign nationals. Travellers should make sure they understand their visa validity to avoid any penalties for overstaying.

Travellers overstaying their visa may have to pay a fine at the airport. Only Lebanese currency (pounds) will be accepted for payment. This should be paid at departures before security procedures.

British overseas citizens and British protected persons will need to get a visa before travelling to Lebanon.

Persons of Palestinian origin may also need a visa before travelling, or to carry additional documentation with them when travelling.

Entry requirements may change at short notice. Check with the Lebanese Embassy in the UK before you travel.

Name checks against offender database

Lebanese immigration authorities check all visitors’ names on arrival against a database of those wanted for, or convicted of, offences in Lebanon. If your name matches an entry on the database, you may be detained (or occasionally allowed entry by surrendering your passport) until they can be satisfied that the record does not relate to you. You might be able to do this by producing a copy of a birth certificate or other official documentation that allows parents’ names to be checked against the database. Consider carrying this kind of supporting documentation.

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Lebanon guide.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Lebanon

Islamist terrorist groups seek to target the Lebanese state, security services, and civilians, and intend to target foreigners in Lebanon. Groups within Lebanon, including Hizballah, are proscribed under the Terrorism Act 2000 and the Counter Terrorism (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019. Offences committed under the act – including funding and supporting proscribed organisations – may be liable to prosecution in the UK.  

Terrorist groups have particularly operated in:

• Tripoli
• Palestinian refugee camps
• areas close to the Syrian border, including around Hermel and Aarsal
• Southern suburbs of Beirut

Recent terrorist-related incidents include:

• In 2023, the Lebanese Armed Forces uncovered a cell planning attacks on military sites and prisons
• in 2022, the police uncovered a terrorist network who were planning 3 simultaneous attacks in the southern suburbs of Beirut
• in 2021, the Lebanese Armed Forces dismantled a suspected ISIS cell accused of killing of a retired intelligence officer planning further attacks
• in 2020, following the arrest of an individual suspected of preparing to conduct terrorist attacks in Beirut, there were police and military casualties in 2 security incidents linked to the disruption of further terrorist cells
• in 2020, 3 municipal police officers were shot and killed in Kaftoun, Koura in North Lebanon

There is a heightened risk of terrorism against aviation. Additional security measures have been in place on flights departing from Lebanon to the UK since March 2017. You should co-operate fully with security officials.

If you notice or suspect a security incident is underway, leave the area immediately. Suspects have detonated explosives to avoid arrest. Keep clear of affected areas immediately after any attacks. Bystanders have been killed in a number of terrorist attacks in recent years.

Terrorist kidnap

There’s a threat of kidnapping in Lebanon. The Lebanese authorities have warned that foreigners could be targeted.

British nationals are seen as legitimate targets, including tourists, humanitarian aid workers, journalists and business travellers. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to protect you or secure your safe release.

The long-standing policy of the British Government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British Government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners builds the capability of terrorist groups and finances their activities. This can, in turn, increase the risk of further hostage-taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) makes payments to terrorists illegal.

Military activity in the Red Sea area       

Military activity is currently underway in response to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent movement of international shipping in the Red Sea. While the area of activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that Travel Advice for nearby countries could change at short notice. You should continue to monitor Travel Advice and follow any relevant instructions from local authorities.

Security situation

The security situation in Lebanon is volatile and can deteriorate quickly.

Violence may occur:

• as a result of the conflict affecting Lebanon
• between security forces and protestors
• between supporters of political groups
• over scarce or subsidised resources

Confrontations often happen without warning, and can result in large numbers of casualties. Security forces may use tear gas and rubber bullets during clashes.

Weapons are common in Lebanon and groups such as Hizballah have arms that are beyond state control. Arguments can quickly escalate into violence, including the use of weapons, typically firearms and bladed weapons.

Celebratory gunfire is illegal in Lebanon but remains widespread. Every year there are reported casualties.

Regional and international developments such as in Syria, Iraq and Israel, can have an impact on the local security situation. Monitor the regional situation whilst in Lebanon.

Security advice for British nationals

You should:

• avoid large crowds and political gatherings
• take cover in a building and move away from windows in areas where there’s celebratory or other gunfire
• be especially vigilant during periods of religious significance (including the holy month of Ramadan) and public holidays
• monitor this travel advice and sign up for email updates
• make sure you have correct and up-to-date travel documents, including a passport and visa if necessary, for yourself and anyone you are travelling with (even if they are not a British national) in case a sudden deterioration in the security situation means you need to leave Lebanon

If there are widespread disturbances or the security situation deteriorates, there may be limits to the assistance that the British Embassy Beirut can provide. Be prepared to shelter in place for several days, if the security situation requires it. This means having enough essential supplies, such as food, water and medicine, at the place where you are staying. Do not rely on the FCDO being able to evacuate you in an emergency.

Severe economic crisis

Currency

Lebanon is experiencing a prolonged economic crisis. This may affect your ability to pay for goods and services. US dollars are widely accepted and are the main cash currency, including in most supermarkets, restaurants and other retail outlets. It is difficult to access US dollars locally and many companies do not accept credit/debit cards. Plan accordingly and ensure you have access to adequate cash for the length of your stay.

Power cuts

Lebanon’s power plants are only producing limited electricity for the national grid. This can lead to power cuts across the country, with an impact on services, such as transport, internet, water and waste collection, and shops, cafes and restaurants. Before travelling, check with your hotel whether they are affected by power cuts. Have a torch to hand at night and plan how you would leave your accommodation in the dark.

Crime

Protecting your belongings

There is moderate risk to tourists from petty or violent crime. However, crime has increased due to the declining economic situation. Theft, vehicle theft and robbery in particular have risen. Take sensible precautions to protect yourself and your belongings:

• consider your route and vary daily routines
• hide expensive-looking jewellery, which could draw unwanted attention
• avoid carrying large amounts of cash in public
• be aware of your surroundings when using ATMs

Members of the public have held up banks across Lebanon in order to access their savings, using both real and replica firearms. This may well continue. Be alert when in or near banks.

Sexual assault

There has been an increase in reported incidents of sexual harassment and assault in public areas, including while walking in Beirut. Consider whether it is safe to walk alone, particularly in less busy areas. Due to the lack of electricity, streetlights often do not work, so streets are very dark at night. Consider taking a torch with you at night and make sure your phone is charged in case of an emergency.

Drug smuggling and car theft

Criminal gangs involved in drug cultivation and smuggling operate in parts of the Beqaa Valley, especially northern Beqaa. Car theft gangs are prevalent and may carry out armed vehicle theft, particularly along sections of the international highway towards Baalbek. Vehicle thefts (including 4x4s) have increased significantly and are often targeted. Other armed crimes, such as robbery and kidnap, can occur in these areas. There are also frequent armed clashes between gangs and the security forces.

Laws and cultural differences

Using cameras and drones in secure areas

Avoid photography in Lebanese Hizballah areas, including the southern suburbs of Beirut, the Beqaa Valley and areas in southern Lebanon. You may be detained if you are observed taking photographs.

Only take photographs in tourist sites. You could be arrested for photographing military sites. Flying drone cameras without permission is illegal.

Ramadan

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, be aware of:

• eating, drinking, smoking or chewing gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
• playing loud music or dance
• swearing in public

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

You should also:

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time

Diversity

Lebanon’s people are diverse, with many different Muslim and Christian sects represented. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and make sure your actions do not offend.

Dress code

In many areas you will find dress codes more relaxed than in other countries of the region, but you should still dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Possessing, using and trafficking illegal drugs (including small quantities) are all serious offences, punishable with prison sentences.

LGBT+ travellers

The Lebanese Criminal Code includes a general provision concerning ‘every sexual act against nature’. Lebanese courts might consider that this includes same sex sexual activity. A criminal offence under this provision is punishable by a prison sentence of up to a year. The Lebanese Medical Association for Sexual Health has resources for LGBT+ people.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Child abduction and travel bans

If you have concerns about child custody, get legal advice before travelling to Lebanon about ‘travel bans’ that can be imposed by male heads of family. Even if you or your child holds a British passport you may be subject to Lebanese laws and regulations.

In Lebanon a father or husband can legally arrange for a travel ban to be placed on their wife or children. If a travel ban is placed on you or your children, you will not be able to travel. If that does happen a parent should seek legal assistance to check if the travel ban can be lifted.

Lebanese family law is very different from UK law and particular care is needed if child custody becomes an issue.

If you’re a British national involved in international parental child abductions or custody disputes, contact the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) for assistance or call +44 (0) 2070 085 000. FCDO has information on international parental child abduction, including how we can help. FCDO strongly advises against attempting to move your child yourself. This may be considered abduction (or ‘re-abduction’). This may be illegal and can put your child at risk.

Transport risks

Shared taxis and unofficial taxis

Do not use shared taxis or taxis hailed on the street. In 2017, the Lebanese Interior Minister advised people in Lebanon not to use Uber taxis.

Only use taxis:

• from recognised companies that use vetted drivers
• recognised by hotels, which are safe and well-maintained

There have been armed robberies and physical attacks against passengers in shared taxis (known locally as service taxis) with passengers being attacked by either the driver or other passengers.

Road travel

You need either a 1968 international driving permit (IDP) or a UK driving licence to drive in Lebanon. The 1949 IDP is not accepted anymore. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

If you are planning to drive in Lebanon, see information on driving abroad.

Driving standards are poor and the accident rate is high. Traffic lights are often switched off and not always observed. It may be better to hire a car with a driver if you’re inexperienced. You must wear a seat belt (if fitted). Avoid travelling at night outside towns if possible. Vehicles with diesel engines are banned.

Licences and permits

Carry ID with you at all times and be prepared to stop at checkpoints to show your papers. The army has set up checkpoints on major and minor roads.

Temporary local licences are also available, but they take longer to get and are more expensive than an IDP.

Roadblocks

Protests and roadblocks may restrict travel at short notice. Major roads in and out of Beirut and across the country, including the roads to and from Beirut Rafik Hariri International Airport, have become blocked at short notice. If you’re travelling to or from the airport, check your flight status before leaving and allow extra time for your journey. If roads from the airport are blocked, wait there until the authorities confirm access roads are open.

Landmines

Landmines and other unexploded weapons are present in Lebanon and are not always clearly marked. Use only well-travelled tracks and do not stray from their edges. Avoid remote abandoned properties. Use local guides and seek local knowledge if you are unsure.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Forest fires

There is a heightened risk of forest fires in Lebanon, particularly during summer. Forest fires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. Take care when visiting or driving through woodland areas. The authorities may evacuate areas and close roads for safety.

If you are travelling in Lebanon, familiarise yourself with local safety and emergency procedures, stay vigilant, and follow the advice of local authorities.

For information on the risk of forest fires, visit the Disaster Risk Management website, Facebook page and Twitter account.

If you see a forest fire, call the emergency services on 112 (for the fire service, call 175).

Earthquakes

Lebanon is in an earthquake zone. There have been no damaging tremors in recent years, although Lebanon experienced strong aftershocks from an earthquake in Turkey in February 2023. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

This section has safety advice for regions of Lebanon. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

Southern suburbs of Beirut

FCDO advises against all travel to the southern suburbs of Beirut due to a heightened risk of kidnap. The southern suburbs of Beirut includes:

• the area south of the sports stadium and the Adnan Al Hakim road (which heads west from the stadium to the Beirut-Saida (Sidon) road), down to the airport
• the neighbourhoods of Bir Hassan, Ghobeiry, Chiyah, Haret Hraik, Burj Al Barajneh, Mraije, Er Rouais and Laylake

Weapons are common in these areas and groups such as Hizballah have arms that are beyond state control. On 2 January, there was a missile explosion in Msharafieh in Beirut’s southern suburbs.

South of the Litani River

FCDO advises against all travel to the area south of the Litani River, which includes the main Naqoura-Tyre-Saida-Beirut highway and areas to the west of it. Since 7 October 2023 there have been frequent mortar and artillery exchanges and airstrikes in Lebanon, most of which have been in this area.

There is a UN peacekeeping presence in the area south of the Litani River due to tensions between Lebanon and Israel.   

See Conflict affecting Lebanon for further information.

Rachaiya, Hasbaiya and Khiam in the Beqaa Valley

FCDO advises against all travel to: 

• the towns of Rachaiya, Hasbaiya, and Khiam in the Beqaa Valley
• the area between these towns up to 5km from the Syrian border

Be vigilant to risks from criminal activity in these areas. Since 26 February, there have been several IDF airstrikes in the Beqaa Valley, including in the city of Baalbek. There is a risk of further strikes in the area.

The Rayak-Baalbek highway 

FCDO advises against all travel:

• from the junction at Rayak along the highway to Baalbek
• to the areas around the highway and towns along it, including Baalbek
• to the area east of the highway up to 5km from the Syrian border and south of Nahlé town

Be vigilant to heightened risks from criminal activity. In 2023, the Lebanese Armed Forces conducted raids against narcotics factories in Baalbek, resulting in the death of numerous soldiers. Since 11 March, there have been IDF airstrikes close to the highway. There is a risk of further strikes in the area.

Palestinian refugee camps

FCDO advises against all travel to the 12 Palestinian refugee camps. See Palestinian refugee camp locations on the UN Relief and Works Agency website.

Palestinian refugee camps are volatile environments where the Lebanese state has limited capacity to impose law and order. There has been a long pattern of violent clashes, particularly in Ain el Hilweh camp near Saida in southern Lebanon.

Area around Ain el Hilweh Palestinian refugee camp in Saida

In addition to advising against travel to all Palestinian refugee camps, FCDO advises against all travel within 2km of Ain el Hilweh Palestinian refugee camp in Saida. In September 2023, Ain el Hilweh camp witnessed intense violence resulting in a number of casualties. There were reports of bullets reaching as far as Ghaziyeh Town (2km south). Tensions remain high and could escalate without warning.

The town of Hermel

FCDO advises against all travel to the town of Hermel and the surrounding towns of Arsal, Ras Baalbek, Qaa, Laboué and Nahlé.

Extremist groups have particularly operated in the city of Tripoli, Palestinian refugee camps, and in areas close to the Syrian border, including around Hermel and Aarsal.

Syrian border

FCDO advises against all travel within 5km of the border with Syria due to the ongoing conflict in Syria and the fragile security near border areas. 

Akkar district 

FCDO advises against all travel to the Akkar district, including between 5km from the Syrian border and the Aabdeh, Halba and Qoubaiyat highway, due to the unstable security situation.

Tripoli 

FCDO advises against all travel to the city of Tripoli due to the risk of violent clashes and counter-terrorism operations.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 140 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Lebanon
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Lebanon.

There have been reported cases of cholera in Lebanon. More guidance is available in TravelHealthPro’s cholera factsheet.

Medication

Medical supplies can occasionally be hard to find in country. Take any medicines you need with you to Lebanon. The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in the UK can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription medication you should carry a medical certificate confirming that the medication has been prescribed for a medical condition.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Lebanon

The availability and quality of medical treatment available in Lebanon has been affected by the economic crisis and fuel shortages, although the situation has stabilised for private healthcare/hospitals in Beirut.

Medical care in Lebanon can be expensive. Most medical providers and hospitals are insisting on significant cash deposits before admitting patients, including in emergency situations. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

Doctors are generally well qualified, though nursing standards vary. Most medical staff speak French and English.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Lebanon where some staff will speak English.

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Lebanon.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Lebanon  

Ambulance: 140

Fire: 175

Police: 112

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers, funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Lebanon
• dealing with a death in Lebanon
• being arrested or imprisoned in Lebanon
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime
• what to do if you’re in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Help abroad in an emergency

If you’re in Lebanon and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Beirut.

You can also contact FCDO online.

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Lebanon on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.