Lebanon

Although a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hizballah was announced on 26 November 2024, Israeli airstrikes could take place without warning. Australians in Lebanon should avoid known or suspected areas of military activity.

The conflict could escalate quickly or spread to other areas in Lebanon with little notice. This could affect your ability to move to safety. Australians in Lebanon should be prepared to shelter in place for an extended period. Make sure you have enough supplies, including food, water, medicine, radio, torches and batteries. Keep your identity documents, including your passport, handy. See our advice on armed conflict.

Flight cancellations and disruptions could occur with little or no notice. Beirut airport could close with no notice and you may be unable to leave for an extended period. The Australian Government may not be able to assist you to leave.

Significant military action has taken place in Beirut, southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley, including rocket, missile and drone attacks, as well as airstrikes. The conflict could resume and escalate quickly. This could affect your ability to move to safety. Avoid areas where military activity may occur.

To be well prepared to leave quickly, make sure you have:

• up-to-date travel documentation
• passports for children born in Lebanon
• current passports for family members travelling with you
• resolved any visa overstay issues with General Security
• any visas your family may require for onwards travel
• any medications you may need while travelling

If violence increases, roads and highways could become blocked. This includes routes to airports and borders. Follow the advice of local authorities, including alerts to seek shelter. Monitor local media for updates. 

Be extra cautious. The security situation is unpredictable and is affected by events including:

• clashes across the Lebanese/Israeli border
• clashes along the Lebanese/Syrian border
• the threat of terrorist attacks
• ongoing economic crisis, political and sectarian tensions

The ongoing crisis has reduced Lebanese law enforcement capacity.

The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.

Political changes in the region and international developments may prompt large demonstrations or violence. Planned and spontaneous demonstrations can take place.

Anti-government protests occur. Protests may target key institutions and sites, including banks. Some can be large and escalate into violent clashes between protesters and security forces.

Authorities use various measures to break up crowds, including:

• water cannons
• tear gas
• live ammunition

These measures have resulted in injuries.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent, including the use of weapons. You could be caught in violence directed at others.

During civil unrest and times of heightened tensions:

• avoid all crowds, protests and demonstrations
• pay close attention to your personal security
• monitor the media and other sources for news on planned and possible actions
• avoid areas where violence has occurred or is likely to occur
• plan your activities to avoid potential unrest on days of national significance
• be prepared to change your travel plans in case of disruptions

If you're in an area affected by clashes:

• stay indoors and away from windows and balconies
• follow the advice of local authorities

Stay indoors during celebratory gunfire, which has caused casualties, and often happens during and after political speeches, weddings, funerals as well as religious and new year holidays. 

If transport disruptions affect your travel plans, contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help.

More information:

• Protests and civil unrest

Beirut

In times of civil unrest, avoid areas of Beirut where protests are known to occur.

In Beirut, protests sometimes close main highways. Burning of tyres to block main roads is common. Groups protest against:

• government policies
• the security environment
• the deteriorating social and economic situation
• the presence of Syrian refugees in Lebanon

Civil unrest can affect the highways between central Beirut and the international airport. Armed clashes have occurred in some areas of Beirut.

Southern suburbs (Dahiyeh region) of Beirut

Don't go to the Dahiyeh region.

This area does not include the main airport highway.

Security in the area is still unstable. You may be caught up in violent attacks between armed groups.

Palestinian refugee camps

Don't visit Palestinian refugee camps in any part of Lebanon.

Extremist groups operate inside camps. The security situation could deteriorate without warning.

The Lebanese state has no formal security presence in the camps. Armed clashes between rival groups happen. Violent crime is common.

Also avoid areas around the camps when there's heightened tension or armed clashes. Stray ammunition has caused casualties.

Tripoli

Don't go to Tripoli's Jabal Mohsen and Bab-al-Tabbaneh neighbourhoods. The risk of civil unrest remains high and can turn violent.

Southern governorates of South Lebanon and Nabatieh

Do not travel to the southern governorates of South Lebanon and Nabatieh due to military activity across the area, especially near the border with Israel. 

Military action could occur and escalate quickly. This could affect your ability to move to safety. There are also landmines and unexploded ordnance. 

Avoid crowds and large gatherings. You could be caught up in violence directed at others.
Although the Lebanese Armed Forces and United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) are present in southern Lebanon, the situation could change quickly.

Israeli forces occupy portions of the southern border. Tensions remain high in the surrounding region.

You could be caught up in violence directed at others.

Avoid areas where military activity may occur. Be ready to leave at short notice.

Don't visit the Palestinian refugee camp of Ein El-Hilweh. There are ongoing clashes between rival groups, including the use of heavy weapons and snipers. Many people have been killed or injured. Lebanese authorities have limited capacity to impose law and order.

Stray ammunition has caused casualties.

Northern governorates of Akkar and Baalbek-Hermel

Do not travel to the northern governorates of Akkar and Baalbek- Hermel due to clashes between rival armed groups, military activity, such as air strikes, and the high risk of sporadic violence.

Regions within 5km of the Syrian border

Don't travel within 5km of the border with Syria, including:

• north of the Halba-Qoubaiyat Road, northern Akkar
• Arsal
• Hermel Wadi Khaled
• the Golan Heights
• Shebaa Farms

Border clashes and violent incidents between Lebanese security forces and Syria-based groups, as well as airstrikes, occur in these areas. 

Areas east of the Litani River in the governorate of Bekaa

Do not travel to the area east of the Litani River in the governorate of Bekaa due to clashes between rival armed groups, military activity, such as air strikes, and the high risk of sporadic violence.

There's a threat of terrorism in Lebanon. Attacks could occur anytime and anywhere, including in Beirut, Tripoli and areas close to the Syrian border. Tactics used by terrorists can include car bombing, suicide bombing and rocket fire. Foreigners may be targeted. 

Security services are on a high state of alert and continue to carry out operations to prevent attacks.

If you notice a security operation is underway, leave the area straight away if safe to do so.

Targets associated with the Lebanese Government include: 

• government institutions, senior politicians, and officials
• the Lebanese Armed Forces
• infrastructure such as airports and public building

Terrorists may also target areas frequented by foreigners, such as:

• buildings associated with embassies, foreign companies, and international organisations
• schools and places of worship
• hotels, clubs, restaurants and bars
• shopping centres, markets and grocery stores
• public transport
• promenades, cinemas, outdoor recreation events and other tourist areas

Extremists have increased attacks in the lead-up to and on days of national and religious significance.

Always be alert to possible threats, especially in public places.

Report any suspicious items or activities to police.

To reduce your risks:

• take official warnings seriously
• consider the likely level of security at known terrorist targets when planning your activities
• monitor the media for threats
• follow the instructions of local authorities.

If there's a terrorist attack:

• leave the affected area immediately if it's safe
• avoid the area afterwards in case of more attacks.

Don't gather in groups after an attack. This also applies if you're evacuated from a building for safety or security reasons.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk.

There's a threat of kidnapping in Lebanon. Foreigners have been kidnapped in Lebanon. Tourists, journalists and humanitarian workers are seen as legitimate targets.

If despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations is limited.

You are responsible for your own safety. To reduce the risk of kidnapping:

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings - avoid distractions. Be prepared to stop or take evasive action if you sense danger
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk. It is essential to have a contingency plan
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures
• vary your movements so you don't set predictable patterns
• keep a low profile – including online. Drawing attention to yourself in high-risk areas may signal to criminals that you have something worth taking
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone. There is safety in numbers, and you should try to travel with someone else, especially at night
• notify family or friends of planned travel; share your location and emergency contacts that they can rely on if something happens
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone. Criminals have been known to search social media for victims
• If you are confronted by armed criminals, it is best to surrender and cooperate – resistance tends to make the situation worse

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Ransom payments to terrorist groups are likely to contravene Australian counter-terrorism financing laws.

More information: 

• Kidnapping 

Crime in Lebanon has increased due to the declining economic situation.

It could include:

• vehicle crime
• petty theft such as bag snatching (including by motorbike riders)
• home break-ins and armed robberies (especially at banks)
• physical and sexual assault

Always be aware of your surroundings.

More information:

• Female travellers
• LGBTQIA+ travellers

Cyber security

Drink spiking

Methanol poisoning

Lebanon experiences natural disasters and severe weather.

Lebanon is in an active earthquake zone.

Bush and forest fires occur in the summer months (July to September), especially in heavily forested areas. Avoid fire-affected areas. Monitor the media for updates.

Sand and dust storms are common. They may pose health risks, especially to people with breathing problems.

If a natural disaster or severe weather happens:

• monitor the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• follow the advice of local authorities

Shortages of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies can occur without notice. 

Health risks include possible water contamination, waterborne illnesses and air pollution caused by burning waste and exhaust fumes from diesel generators. Drink only boiled or bottled water from bottles with sealed lids.

There’s no agreement between Australia and Lebanon for free healthcare. Tourists must pay for all medical care, even if they need to stay in hospital or be evacuated. This can be very expensive. Make sure your travel insurance covers you. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

The standard of medical facilities and care in many of Lebanon's large private hospitals is generally as good as in Australia. However, the public health system doesn't work in the same way. Most reputable hospitals are private and expensive. 

The ability of some hospitals to provide medical care may be impacted by the economic situation, shortages of medical supplies and frequent power cuts.

Doctors usually accept upfront cash payment for services. Treatment can be expensive.

Before treating patients, hospitals usually require a guarantee of payment such as:

• confirmed travel insurance with medical cover
• an up-front deposit

Crimes under Lebanese laws may not be considered offences in Australia. Religious law has the same standing as civil law, which incorporates family law, marriage, divorce and custody.

Family law

All family law matters are based on local religious laws. This includes child custody and divorce decisions.

If you're involved in custody or other family disputes, speak to a lawyer before you leave Australia. Ask for advice on how religious law may affect your family circumstances.

Lebanon has not signed the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. There may be significant delays in returning a child abducted by a parent to Lebanon back to Australia.

Australian citizens can be prevented from leaving Lebanon if there are pending family court matters.

Authorities have stopped Australians and Australian-Lebanese dual nationals, including mothers with children, from leaving Lebanon. Relatives have legally placed border alerts ('stop orders') where there are pending family court matters. Overturning stop orders can be a time consuming and complicated process.

The Australian Government can't prevent or overturn a stop order on an Australian citizen.

More information:

• Australia-Lebanon Agreement information for parents

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include mandatory jail terms.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

Serious crimes, such as murder and treason, may attract the death penalty.

Access to some areas of Lebanon is restricted.

Authorities may detain you and take your camera if you photograph or film:

• military personnel or facilities
• government buildings
• major civilian infrastructure (such as power stations)

LGBTQIA+ information

Same-sex relations are illegal in Lebanon. Penalties include jail terms of up to one year. 

There's been an increase in anti-LGBTQIA+ rhetoric in the community. Some incidents of targeted harassment have occurred. 

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Lebanon recognises dual nationality. However, Lebanese citizenship takes precedence over the second nationality.

If you're a dual national, Lebanese authorities will treat you as a Lebanese citizen. This may significantly limit the consular services we can provide if you're arrested or detained.

If you're a dual citizen re-entering Lebanon on your Lebanese passport or identity document, make sure:

• your Lebanese documentation is up to date
• you meet all entry requirements

More information:

• Embassy or consulate of Lebanon
• Dual nationals

Standards of dress and behaviour are modest in parts of Lebanon, particularly at religious sites.

Take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Public displays of affection may cause offence in conservative and religious areas.

Some hotels ask for proof of marriage before renting rooms to couples. Hotels may refuse you accommodation if you can't provide proof.

Ramadan

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan is observed in Lebanon. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws during this time.

Avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public, or in front of people who are fasting.

Visas

You can get a tourist visa on arrival. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Lebanese embassy or consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Make sure you meet all entry and exit conditions. If you don't, the Australian Government can't help you.

Border measures

Land border crossings between Lebanon and Syria have witnessed clashes and violent incidents between Lebanese security forces and Syria-based groups, as well as airstrikes. Due to instability in Syria, land border crossings from Syria to Lebanon may close at short notice. 

For measures regarding travel between Syria and Lebanon, contact Lebanese and Syrian authorities. 

More information:

• Lebanon - Ministry of Public Health
• Medical assistance overseas

Travel to Israel

It's against Lebanese law to travel to Israel.

If there's evidence that you've travelled to Israel, or intend to, you will be refused entry to Lebanon and deported. You may be arrested and imprisoned. Evidence includes:

• Israeli exit or entry stamps in your passport
• Egyptian or Jordanian stamps from border crossings with Israel
• travel itineraries or tickets that include Israel as a destination
• souvenirs from Israel
• airline tags on your bags
• SIM cards, literature, or other items with obvious links to Israel

Authorities can hold anyone for questioning for several days and then deport them.

Border alerts

Lebanese General Security (border control) checks all traveller names on arrival and departure against a database of border alerts ('stop orders').

Border alerts are raised if there are pending court cases or warrants for people:

• who are wanted for an offence in Lebanon
• who have been convicted of an offence in Lebanon
• with pending family court matters (see Local laws)

If your name matches an entry in the database, authorities may detain you. You'll have to prove the record doesn't relate to you.

Carry supporting identity documents.

Travellers have been detained due to cases of mistaken identity.

Validity

Lost or stolen passport

Passport with X gender identifier

Both the USD and the Lebanese Pound (also known as the Lebanese Lira) are accepted throughout Lebanon. 

Currency exchange facilities and ATMs are widely available in Beirut and other large cities. Daily withdrawal limits and high withdrawal fees may apply.

Make sure you have access to enough hard currency cash during your stay. Contact your bank and monitor media reports before you travel to Lebanon.

Shortages

Fuel and power shortages frequently occur, disrupting public water supply and telecommunication networks, including mobile and internet. 

Expect delays and closures at service stations during fuel shortages. Violence and security incidents have occurred at fuel distribution and storage sites.

Public and private sector industrial strikes occur occasionally, which may affect essential services, including telecommunications and the banking sector. 

Shortages of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies can occur without notice.

Monitor the media for updates on changes that may affect your safety and access to essential services.

Road travel

If you plan to drive in Lebanon, you should hold an International Drivers Permit.

Armed security is present throughout Lebanon, including at road checkpoints.

Always carry ID. Follow the advice of security personnel.

Driving can be dangerous due to:

• poorly maintained roads and vehicles
• snow and ice in winter
• traffic conditions
• poor local driving habits
• lack of streetlights and functioning traffic lights

There are many unexploded ordinances throughout Lebanon, especially south of the Litani River, including:

• cluster bombs
• landmines

Minefields aren't always clearly marked.

To protect yourself from landmines:

• ask local residents for advice
• stay on sealed roads
• avoid walking or driving cross-country

Roads may be blocked during demonstrations and civil unrest. This includes routes to and from the airport and border crossings.

GPS signals may be blocked in parts of Lebanon, disrupting navigational apps. 

More information:

• Driving or riding

Taxis

Don't use service (shared) taxis or taxis hailed on the street, especially late at night.

Australian Embassy staff in Beirut have been advised to use Allo Taxi.

Air travel

The security situation in the Middle East is unpredictable. Conflicts in the Middle East could lead to an increase in tensions elsewhere in the region and may result in airspace closures, flight cancellations and other travel disruptions. Prioritise your safety, monitor events and follow local advice.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

For more information, refer to air travel and check with airlines before booking. Flight paths are subject to change. Check with your airline or travel agent for updates and flight options. 

More information:

• Air travel

Adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes for adventure activities.

If you plan to do an adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 175.

Medical emergencies

Call 140 or 81715076. 

Police

Call 112.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

There are limits to what consular assistance we can provide in high-risk locations. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Beirut. 

Australian Embassy

Embassy Complex
Serail Hill
Downtown Beirut
Lebanon

Phone: +961 1 960600
Email: Consular.Beirut@dfat.gov.au    
Website: lebanon.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: Australian Embassy - Beirut, Lebanon
X: @SafirAustralia
Instagram: @ausemblb

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency outside of the Embassy’s business hours, or if you can’t contact the Embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre (CEC) on:

• +961 1 960600 from Lebanon (and press 7 to speak to a CEC operator)
• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia