Lebanon Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Lebanon.
Healthcare System
Lebanon historically had a high-quality private healthcare system, but the economic crisis has severely impacted medical services. Hospitals face shortages of medications, supplies, and fuel for generators during frequent power outages. Many experienced medical professionals have emigrated.
Hospitals
Major private hospitals in Beirut include American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC), Hotel Dieu de France, and Lebanese American University Medical Center-Rizk Hospital. Payment is typically required upfront in US dollars. Confirm availability of specific medications or equipment before procedures.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies are widely available in cities but face chronic medication shortages. Many common medications are unavailable or rationed. Bring essential medications from home with prescriptions. Pharmacies may accept US dollars for imported medications at significantly higher prices.
Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is absolutely essential. Ensure your policy covers emergency evacuation to Cyprus or Europe, as local treatment options may be limited. Confirm the policy covers the current security situation in Lebanon.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring all prescription medications in original packaging with copies of prescriptions
- Carry sufficient supply of any essential medications as refills may be impossible to obtain
- Have US dollars available for medical payments as credit cards may not work
- Keep your embassy's contact information readily available
- Research evacuation routes and medical facilities near your accommodation
- Consider proximity to quality hospitals when choosing accommodation
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Protests and demonstrations occur frequently, particularly in Beirut and other major cities, often related to economic conditions and political grievances. These can turn violent with little warning, involving tear gas, rubber bullets, and clashes between protesters and security forces.
Sporadic security incidents including armed clashes, explosions, and cross-border tensions occur unpredictably. Border areas experience heightened military activity and occasional exchanges of fire.
Economic hardship has increased incidents of petty crime including pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft from vehicles. Crime rates have risen with the economic crisis.
Driving standards are poor with aggressive driving, disregard for traffic rules, poor road conditions, and inadequate lighting. Fuel shortages can leave vehicles stranded. Traffic accidents are common.
Frequent power outages lasting many hours daily, water shortages, telecommunications disruptions, and fuel scarcity affect daily life and safety. ATMs often don't work, internet is unreliable.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Taxi drivers may quote inflated prices in US dollars or refuse to use meters, particularly targeting tourists at airports and hotels. Some may claim their meter is broken or take unnecessarily long routes.
With multiple exchange rates (official, black market), confusion is exploited. Money changers may shortchange tourists, use sleight of hand, or offer counterfeit Lebanese pounds. Some businesses charge different rates arbitrarily.
Unlicensed individuals approach tourists at historical sites offering guide services at inflated prices or providing poor quality information, then demanding payment or additional fees.
Some establishments add unauthorized items to bills, charge in US dollars at inflated rates without disclosure, or add excessive service charges. Prices may not be clearly displayed.
Some properties demand large cash deposits in US dollars with vague terms about returns, or claim damages to keep deposits. With banking crisis, legitimate refunds may also be impossible.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
General Safety
- Register with your embassy immediately upon arrival and maintain regular contact
- Keep multiple copies of important documents (passport, insurance, emergency contacts) in separate locations
- Maintain at least two weeks of cash in US dollars as ATMs frequently don't work
- Download offline maps and important information before arrival
- Share your itinerary with someone at home and check in regularly
- Have a comprehensive evacuation plan including routes to airports and seaports
- Keep your phone charged and have backup power sources
- Stay informed through multiple sources: embassy alerts, local news, and social media
- Avoid discussing politics or religion in public
- Learn basic Arabic phrases for emergencies
Accommodation Safety
- Choose hotels with backup generators due to frequent power outages
- Verify your accommodation has adequate security measures
- Stay in established neighborhoods with good security reputations
- Keep your room number private
- Use hotel safes for valuables and important documents
- Know multiple exit routes from your accommodation
- Keep emergency supplies including water, snacks, flashlight, and first aid kit in your room
Transportation Safety
- Use reputable taxi services or drivers recommended by your hotel
- Avoid travel after dark, especially outside major cities
- Keep car doors locked and windows up while driving
- Don't pick up hitchhikers or stop for strangers flagging you down
- Ensure vehicles have sufficient fuel before trips as stations often run out
- Avoid border areas and checkpoints unless absolutely necessary
- Be prepared for frequent security checkpoints; always carry ID
- Consider hiring a driver familiar with current conditions rather than self-driving
Communication
- Purchase a local SIM card but be aware of frequent network outages
- Have backup communication methods including messaging apps that work on WiFi
- Keep your embassy's emergency number saved and accessible offline
- Inform someone of your daily plans and expected return times
- Learn emergency phrases in Arabic
- Be cautious about what you share on social media regarding your location
- Have a communication plan for if networks go down
Money and Valuables
- Bring sufficient US dollars in cash as banking system is largely non-functional
- Carry small denominations as getting change can be difficult
- Don't rely on credit cards or ATMs working
- Use money belts or concealed pouches for cash and documents
- Don't display expensive jewelry, watches, or electronics
- Keep only what you need for the day and leave the rest secured
- Understand the multiple exchange rates and clarify prices before purchases
- Photograph your valuables and note serial numbers for insurance purposes
Food and Water Safety
- Drink bottled water only and check seals are intact
- Be cautious with ice in drinks
- Choose busy restaurants with high turnover
- Ensure food is thoroughly cooked and served hot
- Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer
- Be cautious with street food during power outages affecting refrigeration
- Avoid raw or undercooked foods, especially seafood
- Peel fruits yourself rather than buying pre-cut fruit
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Lebanon is relatively more liberal than some neighboring countries, particularly in Beirut and Christian-majority areas, but women travelers should still exercise caution. Sexual harassment, catcalling, and unwanted attention can occur, especially in more conservative areas. The economic crisis has increased general tensions. While many Lebanese women dress in Western style in urban areas, expectations vary by neighborhood and region.
- Dress modestly, especially outside Beirut and coastal areas; cover shoulders and knees in conservative regions
- In Beirut's cosmopolitan areas, dress standards are more relaxed but remain respectful
- Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in less populated areas
- Use reputable transportation; avoid shared taxis with only male passengers
- Be firm but polite in declining unwanted attention; avoid prolonged eye contact with strangers
- Consider wearing a fake wedding ring to deter unwanted advances
- Stay in well-reviewed accommodations in safe neighborhoods
- Keep your phone charged and share your location with trusted contacts
- In conservative areas, consider covering your hair when visiting religious sites
- Be aware that gender segregation may occur in some traditional settings
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- Connect with other travelers or join group tours for added security
- Be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers
- Research specific neighborhoods before visiting to understand local norms
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Same-sex sexual activity is technically illegal under Article 534 of the Lebanese Penal Code, which prohibits sexual relations 'contradicting the laws of nature,' though enforcement is inconsistent. There are no legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Same-sex marriage is not recognized.
- Exercise discretion regarding sexual orientation and gender identity, especially outside Beirut
- Avoid public displays of affection with same-sex partners
- Be cautious about discussing LGBTQ+ topics in public or with strangers
- Research LGBTQ+-friendly establishments before visiting, primarily in Beirut
- Be aware that police harassment can occur, though it's less common in tourist areas
- Consider booking private accommodations rather than sharing rooms in conservative areas
- Connect with local LGBTQ+ organizations discreetly for current advice and safe spaces
- Be cautious on dating apps; use discretion and meet in public, safe locations
- Understand that legal protections are absent if issues arise
- Some hotels in Beirut are known to be LGBTQ+-friendly; research in advance
- Be prepared to present as 'friends' or 'colleagues' in conservative settings
- Monitor local news as social climate can shift with political situations
- Have your embassy's contact information readily available
- Consider travel insurance that doesn't exclude claims related to sexual orientation
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is absolutely essential for Lebanon and should be considered non-negotiable. The combination of economic crisis, political instability, infrastructure failures, limited healthcare resources, and security risks means that emergency evacuation may become necessary with little warning. Medical facilities, while historically good, now face severe shortages, and serious medical emergencies often require evacuation to Cyprus or Europe. Standard travel insurance may exclude coverage for regions with travel warnings, so carefully verify your policy covers Lebanon specifically.
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