Blending the sophistication of Europe with the traditions of the Middle East, Beirut is a cultural crossroads, supremely welcoming to visitors, proud of its ancient history and forging a dynamic path into the future.

Getting there
Beirut's Rafic Hariri International Airport (961 1 628 000; www.beirutairport.gov.lb) lies in the city's southern suburbs, some nine kilometres from the centre, and recently completed a 10-year renovation plan. A ferry service links Beirut to Limasol in Cyprus from May to October. Land routes to Syria and other neighbouring countries are less reliable.

Weather
Being on the coast, Beirut experiences hot and very dry Mediterranean summers from June to September with the thermometer nudging 40^oC. Winters are chilly and rainy. Spring and autumn are usually cool and dry. April and October can be marked by heavy rain storms.

Important Numbers

Transportation/Getting Around

* Remarks: The local currency is Lebanese Pound

Local Language
Learn more about local language from below.

Business and Finance
The country's economic recovery has been helped by a financially sound banking system and resilient small- and medium-scale manufacturers, with family remittances, banking services, manufactured and farm exports, and international aid as the main sources of foreign exchange. Thanks to its strategic location, highly-skilled workforce and dynamic emerging market economy, Lebanon is well-placed to take advantage of the opportunities in the new global economy.

The above information is for reference only. They may be provided to HSBC by other persons or compiled by HSBC from information and materials provided by other persons. HSBC does not warrant the truth, reliability, accuracy or adequacy of the above information and HSBC assumes no liability for any reliance on them by you or any other persons. Please contact the relevant merchant, company or organisation for further details.