A stunning Mediterranean country featuring golden sand, beach clubs, and ubiquitous history is ‘redesigning’ the way it approaches tourism following an explosive conflict
Boasting 139 miles of pristine Mediterranean coastline, luxury holiday resorts, and 32C temperatures – this ‘beautiful’ country could easily be mistaken for Greece.
Last year, a staggering 1.31 million tourists flocked to Lebanon, lured in by the country’s ancient ruins, golden sandy beaches, and stunning architecture. The influx marks a 32.1 per cent decrease in visitor numbers compared to 2023, which can largely be attributed to the conflict between Israel and Lebanese Hizballah.
However, after a ceasefire came into force on November 27, 2024, Lebanon has been grappling to restore its image as a holiday destination. Laura Lahoud, the country’s Minister of Tourism, says Lebanon is entering a ‘new chapter’ – adding: “We are redesigning the tourism journey to meet modern expectations. This includes higher hospitality standards and consistent, transparent pricing. For Gulf visitors in particular, we are encouraging medical, wellness, and cultural offerings that reflect their current expectations, grounded in authenticity, not nostalgia.”
READ MORE: Greece in last-minute scramble as it prepares for huge 28.2m tourist influx
On March 27, the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) updated its advice for Lebanon – removing the strict warning to avoid travelling to the entire country. Now, the body advises against all travel to areas in Beirut and Mount Lebanon Governorate – including the following neighbourhoods:
- Tariq el Jdideh
- Bir Hassan (excluding the Rafiq Hariri Hospital and the Ministry of Public Health)
- Ghobeiry
- Chiayah (south of the Rizkallah Semaan Road and west of (but not including) the Old Saida Road)
- Haret Hraik
- Burj Al Barajneh
- Mraije
- Laylake
The FCDO’s map also shows long stretchers of the country that have an ‘advise against all but essential travel’ warning.This includes spots such as Jezzine, Zgharta, Bcharre, Sidon, and Kfaroue. However, much of the coastline has now turned green – which means tourists can visit but should check the FCDO’s advice before travelling.
Under its ‘Safety and Security’ page, the FCDO highlights multiple risks tourists should consider if visiting the country, including potential terrorist attacks, crime, drug smuggling, and sexual assault. “The Lebanese Criminal Code includes a general provision concerning ‘every sexual act against nature’,” the FCDO adds. “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.”
Despite the barrage of warnings, travel enthusiasts are still flocking to the country – desperate to show its more luxurious side. Last year, TikTok account Wanderlust Family shared a video of their trip to Lebanon, comparing it to the insatiably popular country of Greece.
“Be honest, how many of you thought Lebanon was so beautiful?” the account wrote. “The news gives you a whole wrong picture of this beautiful country! The Lebanese love to party and if you’re travelling to Lebanon, you absolutely have to visit a beach club.”
Hundreds of viewers flocked to the comments section to hail Lebanon’s beauty, with one user writing: “Even as a Greek, I can easily say Lebanon has the most beautiful people and the best food. I can’t wait to go back.” Another said: “I literally want to go so bad,” while a third added: “Wow, so beautiful.”
Your travel insurance may be void if you visit a country hit with an FCDO warning. You can read the government’s full advice here.
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