Lebanon is a small country located in the Middle East, bordered by Syria to the north and east, Israel to the south, and the Mediterranean Sea to the west. Its capital and largest city is Beirut. Lebanon has a rich cultural history and is known for its unique cuisine, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant nightlife.

Lebanon is a country with a complex political and religious makeup, and has a history of conflict and instability. However, it is also a country that is actively working towards a more stable and peaceful future.

Tourism is an important industry in Lebanon, with visitors drawn to the country's many historical and cultural attractions, including ancient Roman ruins, medieval castles, and stunning mountain scenery. Popular destinations include the ancient city of Byblos, the Jeita Grotto caves, the Baatara Gorge waterfall, and the famous Beirut Souks shopping district.

Lebanese cuisine is famous around the world, with its mix of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. Traditional dishes include mezze, a selection of small dishes like hummus, tabbouleh, and stuffed grape leaves, as well as grilled meats like shish taouk and kofta. Lebanese wine is also gaining recognition as a quality product in international markets.

Lebanon's climate is Mediterranean, with hot and dry summers and mild and rainy winters. The best time to visit is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Overall, Lebanon is a country with a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, making it a unique and rewarding travel destination.

Telephone Code
961

Local Emergency Phone
112

Vaccinations
See WHO recommendations

Climate
Mediterranean; mild to cool, wet winters with hot, dry summers; the Lebanon Mountains experience heavy winter snows

Currency (Code)
Lebanese pounds (LBP)

Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, D, G

Major Languages
Arabic, French, English, Armenian

Major Religions
Muslim 61.1% (30.6% Sunni, 30.5% Shia, some Alawites and Ismailis), Christian 33.7%, Druze 5.2%

Potable Water
Opt for bottled water

International Driving Permit
Suggested

Road Driving Side
Right

Tourist Destinations
Baalbek; Beirut (includes National Museum and Corniche); Cedars of God Nature Preserve; Byblos; Beiteddine Palace; Kadisha Valley; Tyre

Major Sports
Soccer, basketball

Cultural Practices
When invited to a home bring a gift for the host; it is considered polite to additionally bring chocolates for the children of the house.

Tipping Guidelines
Waiters are usually tipped 10-15%, but check your bill as some places automatically add a 15% service charge. Hotel porters and parking valets appreciate small bills as a gratuity.

Souvenirs
Jewelry, copperware, glassware, brass tea sets, baskets

Traditional Cuisine
Tabbouleh — a salad made with tomatoes, parsley, bulgur, and onions mixed in a sauce of lemon juice, olive oil, and salt; often served with Kibbeh (ground lamb, bulgur, and seasonings baked, fried, stuffed, or served raw)

Geography
Area
total: 10,400 sq km
land: 10,230 sq km
water: 170 sq km

Climate
Mediterranean; mild to cool, wet winters with hot, dry summers; the Lebanon Mountains experience heavy winter snows

Natural resources
limestone, iron ore, salt, water-surplus state in a water-deficit region, arable land

People and Society
Population
5,331,203 (2023 est.)

Ethnic groups
Arab 95%, Armenian 4%, other 1%

Languages
Arabic (official), French, English, Armenian

Religions
Muslim 67.8% (31.9% Sunni, 31.2% Shia, smaller percentages of Alawites and Ismailis), Christian 32.4% (Maronite Catholics are the largest Christian group), Druze 4.5%, very small numbers of Jews, Baha'is, Buddhists, and Hindus (2020 est.)

Population growth rate
0.64% (2023 est.)

Government
Government type
parliamentary republic

Capital
name: Beirut

Economy
Economic overview
upper middle-income Middle Eastern economy; economic activity hurt by economic depression, COVID-19, and port explosion; hyperinflation and sharp poverty increases; banks have ceased lending; new financing facility helping with recovery

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$72.577 billion (2021 est.)

Real GDP per capita
$13,000 (2021 est.)

Agricultural products
potatoes, milk, tomatoes, apples, oranges, olives, wheat, cucumbers, poultry, lemons

Industries
banking, tourism, real estate and construction, food processing, wine, jewelry, cement, textiles, mineral and chemical products, wood and furniture products, oil refining, metal fabricating

Exports
$10.147 billion (2021 est.)

Exports - partners
Switzerland 27%, United Arab Emirates 15%, South Korea 11%, Saudi Arabia 7%, Kuwait 6% (2019)

Exports - commodities
gold, jewelry, shotguns, diamonds, scrap copper (2019)

Imports
$17.383 billion (2021 est.)

Imports - partners
United Arab Emirates 11%, China 10%, Italy 8%, Greece 8%, Turkey 7%, United States 6% (2019)

Imports - commodities
refined petroleum, cars, packaged medicines, jewelry, gold (2019)