Moving to Lebanon

This guide was written prior to the Israel-Hezbollah conflict and is therefore not reflective of the current situation. Travel to Lebanon is currently not advisable due to the area’s volatile political situation.

A country with a landscape as varied as its diverse population, Lebanon offers a unique experience as a crossroads between the Middle East and the Mediterranean. From vast plains and magnificent mountains to shimmering oceans and lush valleys, Lebanon offers much to explore.

Although the country has experienced security and political challenges over the last few years, expats moving to Lebanon can find opportunities in various sectors and enjoy a rich cultural experience while living there.

Living in Lebanon

Lebanon’s population is highly educated and capable of filling most skilled positions. This means there’s no major push to attract foreign workers to the country. Most expats working in Lebanon are employed by NGOs or within the diplomatic arena. Other skilled foreigners work in construction, architecture, or engineering. Tourism also offers opportunities for expats in Lebanon.

The population is predominantly Muslim with a Christian minority. Due to the instability and conflicts in several of Lebanon’s regional neighbours, the country has also become host to refugees from Iraq, Sudan, and Syria. The presence of these refugees has often been a contentious issue, particularly with regard to the influx of those from Palestine.

Although French and English are also widely spoken, Arabic is the official language of Lebanon. These languages are also spoken and taught in many Lebanese secondary schools. All three languages are used in business circles. Therefore, you should be able to converse easily if you know one or more of these languages when doing business in Lebanon.

Cost of living in Lebanon

New arrivals in Lebanon will find the cost of living in Beirut, Lebanon’s capital, significantly higher in comparison to other cities in the Middle East. The cost of housing, food and energy largely account for the high cost of living. Another large expense you will encounter is transport. The city lacks public transport, so using a private car is necessary.

Families and children in Lebanon

The Lebanese government prioritises education, and the country has one of the highest literacy rates in the Middle East. Lebanese children particularly excel in mathematics and science. Many Lebanese children attend private local schools that offer the International Baccalaureate programme. You can also find international schools offering foreign curricula in Beirut.

Climate in Lebanon

Lebanon’s Mediterranean climate brings hot summers and pleasantly cool winters. The hottest month of the year is August, and coastal temperatures can reach 95°F (35°C). January is the coldest month, with an average temperature of 50°F (10°C). The rainy season is from November to March, and rain tends to fall in heavy, periodic cloudbursts.

Lebanon’s vibrant culture and diversity are what set it apart from other Middle Eastern destinations. These factors will also help ease the integration of expat families and lessen the culture shock that foreigners may experience in other countries in the region.

Fast facts

Population: 5.8 million

Capital city: Beirut (also the largest city)

Political system: Unitary parliamentary democratic republic

Neighbouring countries: Lebanon is bordered by Syria to the north and east, Israel to the south and Cyprus to the west across the Mediterranean Sea.

Geography: Lebanon occupies a narrow strip on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea, with mostly mountainous terrain.

Major religions: Islam and Christianity

Main languages: Arabic (official), French and English

Time: GM+2 (GMT+3 from the last Sunday in March till the last Sunday in October).

Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Round, two-pin plugs and square, three-pin plugs.

Money: The official currency is the Lebanese Pound (LBP).

Tipping: 10 percent if a service charge is not included in the bill.

International dialling code: +961

Emergency numbers: Lebanon has no centralised dispatch station, so most locals call direct station lines for assistance. Nonetheless, expats can call 112 for the police or 140 for the Lebanese Red Cross.

Internet domain: .lb

Transport and driving: Cars drive on the right-hand side of the road. Due to limited public transport options, expats usually have their own car.