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Lebanon

The laws most likely to catch a visitor off guard. What is legal at home can be a serious crime here — each rule links to its official source.

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Drugs

PROHIBITED

Possessing, using and trafficking illegal drugs — including small quantities — are all serious offences in Lebanon, punishable with prison.

Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and large fines.

§ US State Dept — Lebanon

Medications

CONDITIONAL

Carry prescription medication in original packaging with your prescription and confirm legality with Lebanon's Ministry of Health; Lebanon has significant medication shortages, so bring enough for the whole trip.

§ US State Dept — Lebanon

Imports & Customs

RESTRICTED

Lebanese customs may strictly regulate import/export of firearms, military paraphernalia, professional camera equipment, other communications equipment, and antiquities.

Contact the Embassy of Lebanon for requirements; violations can bring detention and confiscation.

§ US State Dept — Lebanon

Driving

CONDITIONAL

An International Driving Permit is required to drive in Lebanon and you must carry your licence, vehicle registration and proof of insurance; vehicles with diesel engines are banned.

Diesel-engine vehicles are banned; expect to stop at army checkpoints and show your papers.

§ US State Dept — Lebanon

Photography & Drones

RESTRICTED

Take photographs only at tourist sites in Lebanon: you could be arrested for photographing military sites, may be detained for taking photos in Hizballah areas, and flying a camera drone without permission is illegal.

Detention or arrest; flying a drone camera without permission is illegal.

§ UK FCDO — Lebanon

LGBTQ+ Safety

PROHIBITED

Same-sex relationships are criminalised in Lebanon and punishable by up to one year in prison.

Up to 1 year in prison; arrests have followed unrelated minor offences.

§ US State Dept — Lebanon

Public Conduct

GOOD TO KNOW

During Ramadan in Lebanon do not eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public during daylight hours — including in your car — and avoid playing loud music, dancing or swearing in public.

§ UK FCDO — Lebanon
LawLert is an independent app and is not affiliated with any government. It summarizes laws from official government and U.S. State Department sources for general information only. This is not legal advice, and laws change. Always confirm with official sources and local authorities before you travel.