eSIM

First order 20% off.

Custom test coupon

First order 20% off.

Custom test coupon

Alfa 4G

+1 others

If you're running low, you can always Top up

The package starts when you connect to a supported network

Health & Safety Tips for lebanon

In Lebanon, the primary emergency numbers are 112 for Police, 140 for Ambulance (Lebanese Red Cross), and 175 for Fire Department. These numbers are generally accessible nationwide, though response times can vary depending on location and current infrastructure challenges.

It is advisable to save these numbers in your phone before arrival. While operators in major cities like Beirut may speak some English or French, Arabic is the predominant language. If you do not speak Arabic, try to have a local assist you or clearly state your location and the nature of the emergency in simple terms.

Additionally, the General Security Directorate can be reached at 1717 for immigration and security-related inquiries. For consular assistance, tourists should also keep their embassy's emergency contact information readily available, as they can provide support in complex situations.

Source: U.S. Embassy in Lebanon, Lebanese Red Cross, various travel advisories

Confidence: 0.95

Update cycle: Current as of October 2023

Travelers to Lebanon should exercise increased caution regarding health. Tap water is generally not safe for drinking; always opt for bottled water, even for brushing teeth. Be mindful of food hygiene, especially with street food and uncooked produce, to prevent gastrointestinal illnesses like traveler's diarrhea, Hepatitis A, and Typhoid.

Routine vaccinations should be up-to-date, and additional vaccines such as Hepatitis A and Typhoid are strongly recommended. Rabies is present in Lebanon, so avoid contact with stray animals. Mosquito-borne diseases like Leishmaniasis can occur in rural areas, necessitating insect repellent and protective clothing.

Medical facilities in Beirut, particularly private hospitals, are generally of good quality but can be expensive. Outside the capital, healthcare services may be more limited. Comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation is highly recommended, given the potential for medical emergencies and the economic situation affecting healthcare resources.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)

Confidence: 0.9

Update cycle: Current as of October 2023

For entry into Lebanon, there are generally no mandatory vaccination requirements for most international travelers, unless arriving from a country with a high risk of Yellow Fever transmission. In such cases, a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for entry.

However, several vaccinations are strongly recommended to protect against common diseases. These include routine vaccinations such as Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, and Polio. Additionally, Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines are highly advised due to potential exposure through contaminated food or water.

Depending on your travel itinerary and activities, your healthcare provider may also recommend Hepatitis B (especially for longer stays or potential medical exposure) and Rabies (for those engaging in outdoor activities, working with animals, or visiting remote areas). It is crucial to consult a travel health specialist at least 4-6 weeks before your trip to ensure you are adequately protected.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), IATA Travel Centre

Confidence: 0.9

Update cycle: Current as of October 2023

Connectivity & Mobility in lebanon

Extensive Network Coverage Across Lebanon

Mobile network coverage in Lebanon is primarily provided by two main operators, Alfa and Touch, offering robust 4G/LTE services across urban and semi-urban areas. Tourists can expect reliable connectivity for both physical SIM cards and eSIMs, ensuring seamless communication throughout their visit. While 5G is being progressively rolled out in key metropolitan centers, 4G/LTE remains the dominant and widely accessible standard. Prune offers convenient eSIM solutions that leverage these established networks, providing an alternative to traditional physical SIMs without compromising on coverage quality.

Source: https://www.alfa.com.lb/en/coverage

Confidence: 0.95

Update Cycle: 3-6 months

Affordable Prepaid SIM Options for Tourists

For tourists visiting Lebanon, prepaid SIM cards are readily available from the main operators, Alfa and Touch, offering various packages tailored for short-term stays. These packages typically include a combination of data, local calls, and sometimes international minutes, with prices generally ranging from $10 to $25 for plans valid for one to two weeks. These can be purchased at the airport, official operator stores, or authorized resellers. For those preferring the convenience of digital activation, https://prune.co.in/ often has competitive pricing for eSIM plans, allowing travelers to secure connectivity before arrival.

Source: https://www.alfa.com.lb/en/prepaid/tourist-line

Confidence: 0.9

Update Cycle: 6 months

Strong 4G/LTE and Emerging 5G in Urban Centers

Lebanon's major metropolitan areas boast strong mobile network coverage, particularly for 4G/LTE services, ensuring high-speed internet access for tourists. Cities like Beirut, the capital, and Tripoli, a significant northern city, benefit from extensive 4G/LTE infrastructure, providing reliable connectivity for navigation, communication, and streaming. While 5G deployment is still in its early stages, it is gradually expanding in select high-traffic zones within Beirut and other key urban hubs, offering even faster speeds where available. Tourists can expect excellent mobile data performance in these densely populated regions.

Source: https://www.alfa.com.lb/en/coverage

Confidence: 0.95

Update Cycle: 3 months

Money & Daily Life in lebanon

Currency

The official currency of Lebanon is the Lebanese Pound (LBP), also known as the Lira. However, due to the severe economic crisis, the LBP has experienced extreme devaluation and volatility. For tourists, it is highly recommended to carry U.S. Dollars (USD) in cash, preferably in small denominations. Many businesses, especially those catering to tourists, quote prices and prefer payment in USD. The exchange rate between LBP and USD can vary significantly between the official bank rate and the parallel market rate, with the latter often being more favorable for exchanging USD to LBP if needed. It's advisable to exchange money only at reputable exchange offices or banks, and to be aware of the prevailing market rate.

Source: Central Bank of Lebanon, various financial news outlets, travel advisories

Confidence: 0.9