Lebanon travel advice

Risk level

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

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Lebanon travel advice

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

Safety and security

2SLGBTQI+ persons

2SLGBTQI+ persons are discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics. Incitement to violence and attacks on 2SLGBTQI+ persons have occurred.

There are reports of individuals using popular dating applications and websites to threaten, extort and blackmail 2SLGBTQI+ persons.

Lebanese law criminalizes sexual acts ''contradicting the laws of nature’’ and a ''man disguising as a woman.’’ These provisions may be interpreted broadly to arrest, detain and prosecute 2SLGBTQI+ persons. If you are convicted, you could face imprisonment.

Authorities regularly ban peaceful gatherings and events related to 2SLGBTQI+ issues.

• Beware of people who show a keen interest online
• You could be the victim of a scam if you agree to meet with an online acquaintance
• Always meet new acquaintances in a secure and familiar location

Know the risk of inviting new acquaintances to your accommodation 2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Lebanon.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Areas south of Litani River

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) maintains peacekeepers south of the Litani River near the border with Israel due to the security situation. This region remains highly militarized, and is subject to frequent strikes.

The Government of Canada’s ability to provide consular services in southern Lebanon is extremely limited due to the volatile security situation and access restrictions.

The international border between Lebanon and Israel is not entirely defined. UNIFIL enforces the Blue Line, which is a demarcation line separating the two countries. It’s impossible to cross from one country to the other. Areas adjacent to the Blue Line are often heavily mined. The areas of Ghajar, Kfar Shouba Hills and Shebaa Farms are inaccessible from Lebanon.

Southern suburbs of Beirut

Armed groups are present in large parts of Beirut’s southern suburbs, which are subject to heavy and frequent strikes from Israel, especially in the following neighbourhoods of Dahiyeh:

• Jnah
• Bir Hasan
• Chiyah
• Ghobeiry
• Burj al-Barajneh
• Haret Hreik
• Hazmieh

Terrorist attacks involving improvised explosive devices, rockets and mortars have occurred.

There is also a risk of kidnapping and you could be caught in violent clashes between armed groups.

Northern Lebanon

While Lebanese security forces have conducted operations in northern Lebanon to improve the security situation, some parts of the region remain unstable. Some of these areas have experienced inter-communal violence that can spread to outlying areas. Heavy weapons fire, including from machine guns, grenades and rocket-propelled grenades; sniper activity and terrorist attacks have occurred.

Extremist groups have sought refuge in northern Lebanon, including throughout Akkar District.

Border region with Syria

The security situation in regions bordering Syria is volatile. Armed criminal groups are present in the area, which sometimes leads to violent clashes and kidnappings. The Lebanese and Syrian military have carried out operations resulting in casualties.

The border is not entirely clearly identified.

Northeastern Bekaa Valley

The security situation in the Northeastern Bekaa Valley is volatile and there is an ongoing risk of air strikes, sporadic violence, organized crime and kidnapping.

Palestinian refugee camps

The security situation in Palestinian refugee camps and surrounding areas remains tense and unpredictable. Violence is common in some camps, particularly Ain el Helweh, near Saida, and Beddawi, near Tripoli.

Refugee camps are often integrated into urban centres and their perimeter is not always clearly identified.. Palestinian authorities control the security in most camps and may delay or refuse to grant Canadian officials access to Canadians in these areas.

Exercise caution and remain aware of your surroundings at all times in order to avoid inadvertently entering a camp.

Terrorism

There’s a threat of terrorism. Attacks could occur at any time across Lebanon.

Targets could include:

• government buildings
• schools, including universities
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Local authorities are on high alert and carry out anti-terrorism operations across the country to prevent attacks. The potential for attacks targeting western interests exists  across the country, especially in Beirut.

There is a significant presence of terrorist groups in several areas of southern Lebanon, including in the southern suburbs of Beirut and the northern Bekaa Valley. These groups may exert a large amount of control in some areas, and they may delay or prevent Canadian officials from providing consular assistance in the region.

Politically motivated attacks may also occur. A number of such attacks have historically taken place in the southern suburbs of Beirut.

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant during :

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• public celebrations

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.

Shortages and power disruptions

The conflict in the Middle East has had repercussions on the fuel supply in Lebanon. Prices have significantly increased and some gas stations may experience temporary shortages. Essential services, such as electricity and transportation of goods, water and food may also be impacted.

Power outages and rationing of electricity are common in many parts of the country, including in Beirut. They may affect telecommunications, banking and critical infrastructure, such as hospitals.

Demonstrations

The volatile security environment and the political and economic uncertainty in the country may lead to an increase in civil unrest at any time. Planned and spontaneous demonstrations related to the domestic and regional situations regularly occur in Lebanon, particularly in Beirut.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

There are still sporadic closures on roads to Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport for various reasons, including air strikes and clashes between various local groups. Access to the airport may be unavailable for extended periods when the security situation deteriorates.

• Avoid all areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Allow extra time to get to and from the airport
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Kidnapping

Kidnappings have occurred in the border areas with Syria, and in the Beqaa Valley. They could also happen in other parts of Lebanon, especially in areas controlled by criminal groups, including in the southern suburbs of Beirut.. Although most incidents of kidnapping typically involve Lebanese individuals, foreigners have also been targeted. Maintain a high level of vigilance at all times.

Landmines

Landmines and unexploded ordnance continue to pose a threat in some parts of the country, including south of the Litani River and in the northeastern border regions in the governorates of Beqaa and Baalbek-Hermel.

• Look for posted landmine warnings
• Stay on paved roads
• Avoid walking or hiking in these areas.

Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, car thefts and residential break-ins, occurs regularly.

Violent crime and sexual assault also occur. Shooting incidents, especially at gas stations, have led to injuries and deaths of civilians.

Armed groups are established in the Bekaa Valley and Beirut’s southern suburbs, where they control territory and run drug and weapons smuggling activities. These areas have informal checkpoints, tight surveillance, and frequent violence between rival groups and with security forces. Limited government control and easy access to weapons fuel the instability.

There is a highly visible security presence throughout the country. 

• keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place 
• avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery 
• do not carry large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily 
• avoid walking alone after dark 
• be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy tourist areas 

Celebratory gunfire

While illegal, firing weapons to celebrate is common in Lebanon and may take place:

• during New Year’s Eve
• during political events

Injuries and deaths due to stray bullets have occurred, including at great distances from the shooting locations.

During celebratory gunfire:

• avoid areas where they are taking place
• stay inside buildings
• stay away from windows

Road safety

Congestion and aggressive driving are serious problems throughout the country. Drivers often don’t respect the rules of the road, and traffic laws are not consistently enforced. Be cautious when crossing streets, as drivers don’t always give pedestrians and cyclists the right of way.

Road accidents and serious road rage incidents causing injury or death are common in Lebanon.

Road lighting is sporadic and unreliable in urban areas and virtually non-existent in rural areas. At night, many drivers use their high beams exclusively, often creating a serious hazard due to blinding glare. Increased power cuts have led to interruptions of traffic lights in the city centre, including at major intersections.

Public transportation

Avoid public transportation, which is crowded, unsafe and unreliable.

Taxi

Foreigners using shared transportation have been victims of armed robbery, by either the driver or other passengers. Most major hotel chains will have an agreement with a reputable taxi company and can arrange a taxi for you.

• Don’t use shared or “service” taxis
• Only use reputable taxi companies through establishments such as hotels
• Avoid hailing taxis on the street 
• Only use officially marked taxis 

Air travel

We don't make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

The authorities of a country or territory decide who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Lebanese authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you're travelling with.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Lebanon.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

You should also be aware that current systems used by some countries and travel companies may not recognize the “X” gender identifier. You may still be asked to provide your sex/gender information as either male or female when travelling.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports and other travel documents

Visas

Tourist visa: required
Student visa: required
Work visa: required
Business visa: required

Ensure you apply for the proper type of visa for the specific purpose of your trip. Visas are available at Lebanese diplomatic missions abroad or at any port of entry into Lebanon.

Make sure your visa is valid for the duration of your stay. An expired entry visa must be extended by Lebanese authorities or you will not be allowed to leave the country.

Entry stamp

Your passport must show a Lebanese entry stamp to exit the country. If you obtain a new passport while in Lebanon, you must present your old passport containing proof of entry to authorities upon departure.

Travel bans

Local authorities may issue travel bans that won’t allow you to enter or exit Lebanon, regardless of your nationality.

You may also be denied re-entry to Lebanon if you left Lebanon as a refugee. To ensure that you are not subject to a travel ban to re-enter Lebanon, contact the Lebanese authorities prior to your departure to Lebanon.

Regional travel

Travel to or from Israel is illegal in Lebanon. You may be refused entry into Lebanon if your passport bears an Israeli visa, an Israeli border stamp, or an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel, as such a stamp could indicate you visited Israel prior to visiting Lebanon.

Areas south of the Litani River

Travel permits from Lebanese authorities and/or UNIFIL may be required to enter areas south of the Litani River bordering Israel.

Children and travel

Children travelling with only one parent may be required to provide an authorization letter from the other parent to exit Lebanon.

Children and travel

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Safe food and water precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
• Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding - the water might look clean but can still be contaminated 
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs 

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
• wear socks and closed-toe shoes
• sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
• do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Animal precautions

Some infections can spread directly from animals to people, like rabies or bird flu (avian influenza). Others don’t spread directly from animals but can infect people who visit areas animals have contaminated with their droppings or body fluids.

Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, their droppings, or their body fluids, like:

• travelling in rural or forested areas
• camping, hiking, or visiting caves
• visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets

To reduce your risk of getting sick:

• avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats.
• stay away from places where animal waste can build up, such as caves
• avoid eating undercooked meat

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Person-to-person infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
• wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: 
  
  • if you’re sick and need to be around others 
  • when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
• cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
• practise safer sex methods
  • use barrier protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medical services and facilities

Medical services and supplies in Lebanon are being affected by the economic crisis and fuel shortages. As a result:

• air conditioning and electricity may be turned off
• non-essential medical treatment may be cancelled
• some sections of hospitals may have reduced capacity or be closed
• hospitals may refuse to admit patients due to the lack of space or supplies

Medical facilities could be difficult to access and services can be expensive. Private facilities may not have access to basic resources and may be forced to close or reduce their services, increasing the pressures on the public health system.

Payment in advance is almost always required in private health care facilities.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Photography

It is prohibited to photograph or film government buildings or military personnel, equipment and facilities.

Avoid photographing individuals without their permission.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Individuals charged with drug offences can expect to remain in jail and to be denied bail throughout the judicial process. This process often takes years.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Dress and behaviour

The dress code in Lebanon is more relaxed than in most Middle Eastern countries.

However, to avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions

Driving

Ensure your travel insurance is valid for driving in Lebanon.

You must carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Ramadan

In 2027, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 7.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

• drinking
• eating
• smoking

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Lebanon. However, local authorities will treat dual Canadian-Lebanese citizens as Lebanese nationals.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Lebanon, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Dual citizens

Family law

Family law matters in Lebanon, including child custody and divorce-related decisions, are settled according to local religious laws.

Canadian custody documents, including Canadian court orders pertaining to custody, may not be automatically recognized or enforceable in Lebanon. 

Relatives frequently place travel bans on Canadians. If you are involved in custody or other family disputes, consult a lawyer for advice on how religious law in Lebanon may affect your family situation.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Lebanon.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Lebanon by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Lebanon to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Money

The currency is the Lebanese pound (LBP), but the US dollar is widely accepted. The economy is mainly cash-based in Lebanon. Many stores and companies accept credit/debit cards.

Foreign currencies, especially US dollars, can be exchanged at licensed money exchange bureaus, but not at banks.

While ATMs are generally stocked with Lebanese pounds and US dollars, there may be limits on daily withdrawals imposed by certain banks.

Natural disasters and climate

Earthquakes

Lebanon is located in an active seismic zone. Low to moderate magnitude earthquakes occur regularly, particularly in regions such as the Bekaa Valley and along the coast. While these events have not caused major damage in recent years, the presence of regional fault lines means there is an ongoing risk of stronger earthquakes.

In the event of an earthquake:

• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• monitor local media for the latest developments
• be prepared for aftershocks, which may occur after the initial quake
• be aware that landslides are possible in mountainous regions

You should remain vigilant and ensure that you are familiar with basic earthquake safety measures throughout your stay.

Flooding

Torrential rains and heavy flooding occur, especially in mountainous areas in the north and during winter months. It can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

In the event of flooding:

• avoid the affected area
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Large-scale emergencies outside Canada