Is Beirut Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Beirut offers a rich cultural experience with vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and historical scenes. However, for a solo female traveler, it's important to stay aware and vigilant. There are occasional political demonstrations and security issues that might affect safety. While locals are generally welcoming and respectful, noticeable sexism or harassment unfortunately can still be encountered. Therefore, it's best to dress modestly to respect the local culture and to avoid unnecessary attention. Always follow the local news and updates given by local authorities or your embassy.

Safety rating

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Safety index

Safety at night:Unsafe

While Beirut has areas that are safe, and there are security forces present throughout the city, it is generally not recommended for solo female travelers to walk alone at night. Always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when travelling after dark. It would be a wiser choice to use verified taxi services or public transportation during these hours.

Public transportation:Moderate

Beirut's public transportation is somewhat reliable. Taxis, known as 'service taxis', and buses are the most popular forms of public transit. For taxis, the concept of sharing with other passengers is common, so be ready for that. Buses can be somewhat chaotic as timetables aren't strictly adhered to but they do cover a broad network. Both are generally regarded as safe but there may be instances of overcrowding and erratic driving. Remember to keep an eye on your belongings and always negotiate taxi fares ahead of time.

Street harassment:Moderate

Beirut is generally considered safe for solo female travelers, but like most urban areas, street harassment can occur. Generally, it is limited to stares or undesirable comments, but these experiences vary considerably between individuals. Always be aware of your surroundings and be confident. Dress moderately to respect local customs. Trust your instinct, if a situation doesn't feel right, remove yourself. The Lebanese themselves are known for their warm hospitality, but it's always useful to know common phrases in Arabic to better communicate and possibly deter any potential harassers.

Petty crimes:Low

Beirut generally has a lower instance of petty crime compared to other major cities in the world. Nonetheless, attention should be given to personal belongings at all times, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Incidences of pickpocketing or bag snatching do occur, though they are not commonplace. As with all travel, maintaining a good awareness of your surroundings and avoiding isolated areas, especially at night, are fundamental precautions.

Tap water:Unsafe

Tap water in Beirut is generally not recommended for drinking directly from the tap. The water supply can be inconsistent and the water quality varies significantly, not meeting the standard for drinking. It is highly recommended to use bottled water or purify tap water before consuming it.

Is Beirut safe to travel?

Solo travel experience

I have been in Beirut for two weeks and it is an amazing time. This city is full of energy, with lots of things to do, bars, clubs, parties, shops and restaurants. People here are very kind. I felt very safe.

Posted: August 1, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I went to Beirut alone in October of last year and felt safe the entire time. Beirut is a very diverse, lively city with old neighborhoods, but also with a huge amount of new investments and a myriad of great bars and restaurants that are opening there. Beirut was my base, from where I made day trips to Tripoli, Sidon and Tyre on local buses. I loved it and definitely want to go there again.

Posted: July 31, 2023
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Is Beirut safe to live in?

Depends on the area. For night time in Beirut, Badaro is the best go to option. It’s very safe, you find diverse people and nobody would look at you. If you consider other areas make sure to have someone with you at night.

Posted: March 22, 2024
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Is Beirut safe right now?

Before your visit to Beirut, it's essential to check travel advisories for Lebanon, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryDo not travel

The United States Government advises reconsidering travel to Lebanon due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, and armed conflict. Certain regions, especially those near the borders, are prone to heightened risk. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: January 29, 2024
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryDo not travel

The Canadian Government advises avoiding all travel to Lebanon due to a deteriorating security situation, civil unrest, an increased risk of a terrorist attack, and the ongoing armed conflict with Israel. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: March 13, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryDo not travel

The Australian Government advises against traveling to Lebanon due to the volatile security situation and the potential for further deterioration. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: March 21, 2024

Meet locals in Beirut

Meet local women in Beirut who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Yara

Yara

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 Living life with curiosity and embracing the beauty of our natural world.

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Amal

Amal

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it is me Amal from Lebanon, i like to meet new people to exchange cultures, i also would like to show the beauty of Lebanon since Lebanon is amazing and the vibes here are so good, it is full of green moutains,waterfalls,nature also the beach is amazing and the food is so tasty, i am here to show the Lebanese hospitality During my journey i met people almosf from all over the world and showed them the beauty of my country Also i love Couchsurfing application allows me to meet amazing travelers and helped them durung thierr stay in Lebanon I am a social worker at NGO, i love my job since it puts me in touch with people and i feel what they feel, i am an easy going person, i love the sea,sun,icecream and the sun i adore summer vibes

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Stay with locals in Beirut

Stay with local women in Beirut who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Amal

Amal

Beirut

Can host for:

3 days

About me

it is me Amal from Lebanon, i like to meet new people to exchange cultures, i also would like to show the beauty of Lebanon since Lebanon is amazing and the vibes here are so good, it is full of green moutains,waterfalls,nature also the beach is amazing and the food is so tasty, i am here to show the Lebanese hospitality During my journey i met people almosf from all over the world and showed them the beauty of my country Also i love Couchsurfing application allows me to meet amazing travelers and helped them durung thierr stay in Lebanon I am a social worker at NGO, i love my job since it puts me in touch with people and i feel what they feel, i am an easy going person, i love the sea,sun,icecream and the sun i adore summer vibes

Speaking

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rana

rana

Beirut

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hello, My name is rana and I'm interested in hiking, food & cuisine, nature, fashion, history, rafting, photography, live music and dancing

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Upcoming visitors to Beirut

Connect with upcoming visitors to Beirut who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.
Zoe

Zoe

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I love to travel, learn new languages, soending time talking with my friends and playing games !

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Safety in Lebanon