Moving to Beirut, Lebanon
Last updated on Aug 06, 2024
Summary: Expats move to Beirut, Lebanon for a variety of reasons, including its vibrant culture, diverse population, and excellent job opportunities. The city is known for its Mediterranean climate, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Additionally, Beirut is a great place to experience the Middle Eastern culture, with its unique cuisine, music, and art. Furthermore, the city is home to a number of international organizations, making it an attractive destination for those looking to work in the international arena. Finally, Beirut is a great place to live, with its low cost of living and excellent infrastructure.
What do I need to know before moving to Beirut?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Beirut, they said:
"Beirut is a vibrant and diverse city with a rich cultural heritage. It is important to be aware of the political situation in Lebanon, as it can be volatile at times. It is also important to be aware of the local customs and etiquette, as well as the local language, Arabic. It is also important to be aware of the cost of living in Beirut, as it can be quite high. Additionally, it is important to research the availability of healthcare and other services in the city before moving. Finally, it is important to be aware of the safety situation in Beirut, as it can be unpredictable," said one expat in Beirut.
How do I find a place to live in Beirut?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Beirut is to use online resources such as websites and social media. Websites such as Lamudi, Property Finder, and Real Estate Lebanon are great resources for finding apartments, villas, and other types of housing in Beirut. Additionally, social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram can be used to search for housing in Beirut. Many real estate agents and landlords post listings on these platforms, making it easy to find a place to live in Beirut. Additionally, it is also possible to find housing in Beirut by asking friends and family for recommendations or by visiting the city and looking for housing in person," commented one expat who made the move to Beirut.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Beirut?
"Expat homes and apartments in Beirut tend to be modern and luxurious, with high-end furnishings and appliances. Many expats choose to live in the city center, where they can enjoy easy access to the many restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Expat apartments often feature large balconies with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city skyline. Many expats also choose to live in the suburbs, where they can enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle and access to outdoor activities," said one expat in Beirut.
What is the average cost of housing in Beirut?
If you are thinking about moving to Beirut, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Beirut can vary greatly depending on the area and type of property. Generally, the average cost of renting an apartment in Beirut is around $1,000 to $2,000 per month, while the average cost of buying a property is around $2,000 to $3,000 per square meter. Prices can be higher in more desirable areas, such as downtown Beirut," said one expat who made the move to Beirut.
Should I buy or rent a home in Beirut?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Beirut, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Buying a home in Beirut can be a great investment, as the city is a vibrant and growing metropolis. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Beirut, as well as the current political and economic climate, before making a decision. Renting a home in Beirut can be a great option for those who are not ready to commit to a long-term purchase, or who are looking for a more flexible living situation. Renting can also be a great way to get to know the city and its culture before making a larger investment. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Beirut should be based on individual needs and preferences," remarked one expat who made the move to Beirut.
What should I pack when moving to Beirut?
We asked people living in Beirut to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"When moving to Beirut, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Pack clothing that is appropriate for the hot and humid climate, such as light, breathable fabrics. Bring items that will help you stay cool, such as a fan or air conditioning unit. Additionally, pack items that will help you adjust to the culture, such as modest clothing and items that will help you learn the language. Don't forget to bring items that will help you feel at home, such as pictures of family and friends, favorite books, and other items that will make you feel comfortable," said one expat who made the move to Beirut.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Beirut?
We asked people in Beirut if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:
"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Beirut. It is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. It is also important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to avoid making negative comments about religion or politics. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking English in public, as this can be seen as disrespectful. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs regarding greetings and physical contact, as some forms of physical contact may be seen as inappropriate," replied a member in Beirut.
Why do people move to Beirut?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Beirut, they responded:
"Beirut is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, diverse population, and unique cuisine. The city is known for its bustling nightlife, with a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs to explore. The city also offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to swimming and sailing. Additionally, Beirut is home to a number of world-class universities, making it an ideal destination for those looking to further their education. With its Mediterranean climate, Beirut is a great place to enjoy the sunshine and warm weather year-round. Finally, the city is known for its welcoming and friendly people, making it a great place to make new friends and build a new life," wrote one expat living in Beirut.
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How are healthcare services Beirut?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Beirut, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Beirut, are a mix of public and private providers, offering a range of medical treatments and services to the city's residents. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Public Health, which operates several hospitals and clinics throughout the city. These facilities provide essential medical services, including emergency care, maternity care, and general medicine. In addition to public hospitals, Beirut is home to numerous private hospitals and clinics that offer specialized medical services. These private facilities are known for their high-quality care and advanced medical technologies, attracting patients from across the region. Some of the most renowned private hospitals in Beirut include the American University of Beirut Medical Center, Clemenceau Medical Center, and Hotel Dieu de France Hospital. Primary healthcare services in Beirut are provided through a network of primary healthcare centers, which offer preventive and curative care, as well as health education and promotion services. These centers are spread across the city, ensuring that residents have access to essential healthcare services close to their homes. Pharmacies are also widely available throughout Beirut, providing prescription and over-the-counter medications to residents. Many pharmacies are open 24 hours a day, ensuring that patients have access to medications when needed. Despite the availability of healthcare services in Beirut, the city faces several challenges in providing adequate care to its residents. The ongoing economic crisis in Lebanon has led to shortages of essential medical supplies and medications, as well as a lack of funding for public hospitals. Additionally, the influx of refugees from neighboring countries has placed a significant strain on the healthcare system, leading to overcrowded facilities and limited resources. Overall, healthcare services in Beirut are diverse and accessible, with both public and private providers offering a range of medical treatments. However, the city's healthcare system faces ongoing challenges due to economic instability and an increasing demand for services," wrote one expat living in Beirut.
What are medical services in Beirut like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Beirut, they replied:
"Medical services in Beirut, are generally of good quality, with a mix of public and private healthcare facilities available. The city is home to several well-equipped hospitals and clinics, staffed by skilled medical professionals, many of whom have trained abroad. Private hospitals tend to offer a higher standard of care and more advanced medical technology than public hospitals. However, the cost of healthcare can be high, particularly in private facilities, and it is recommended for visitors to have comprehensive medical insurance. Pharmacies are widely available throughout the city, and most medications can be obtained without a prescription. Despite the overall quality of medical services, the healthcare system in Beirut faces challenges, including limited resources and strained infrastructure due to the ongoing economic crisis and the aftermath of the 2020 Beirut explosion," wrote one expat living in Beirut.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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