Middle East and North Africa

Lebanon is part Muslim, part Christian. In many areas you will find dress codes more relaxed than in other countries of the region, but you should still dress modestly when visiting sites of religious significance such as mosques or churches, and also where it is clear that local people expect it.

You should respect the local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure they do not offend other cultures or religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas. During Ramadan eating, drinking or smoking in public places between the hours of sunrise and sunset may cause offence in some areas. For more general information see travelling during Ramadan.

Possession, use and trafficking of controlled drugs are all serious offences in Lebanon, which carry custodial sentences.

 

Photography should be limited to tourist sites. Photographing military sites may result in your arrest.

The Lebanese Criminal Code contains a general provision concerning 'every sexual act against nature'. Lebanese courts consider that this provision includes homosexuality. A criminal offence under this provision is punishable with a custodial sentence of up to one year.

 

For more general information for different types of travellers see your trip.

Child Abduction

The most common reason for consular assistance for British Nationals in Lebanon is from mothers seeking help in overturning travel bans placed on their children, or themselves, by their fathers or husbands.  Lebanese family law is very different from UK law and particular caution is needed if child custody is (or becomes) an issue.

If you have concerns about child custody you should seek advice before travelling to Lebanon about 'travel bans' that can be imposed by male heads of family to prevent wives, children or female family members from leaving Lebanon.  Even if a child or female family member holds a British passport they may be Lebanese automatically by descent and so be subject to Lebanese laws and regulations.

Families should note that if children are travelling without their father (even if the mother is accompanying them) the Lebanese immigration authorities may ask for proof that permission to travel has been given by the children's father.

Please see Child Abduction.