Lebanon

About Lebanon

Capital

Beirut

Continent

Independence Date

22 November 1943

Official Language	Arabic
Second Language	French, English
Population	~5.6 million
Passport Color	Red
Passport Rank	#97
Dialing Code	961
Country TLD	.lb

Lebanon Overview

Lebanon, officially the Lebanese Republic (Arabic: الجمهورية اللبنانية), is a country in Western Asia on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea. It shares borders with Syria to the north and east and Israel to the south. The capital and largest city is Beirut.

Lebanon is known for its rich history, ancient civilizations, and vibrant cultural life. It was once home to the Phoenicians, one of the world’s earliest maritime traders. Today, it is famous for its cuisine, diverse religious heritage, mountain landscapes, and Mediterranean coastline. Despite political and economic challenges, Lebanon remains a hub of art, education, and resilience in the Middle East.

The official language is Arabic, with French and English widely spoken. The national currency is the Lebanese Pound (LBP). Lebanon has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The country’s economy relies on services, banking, remittances, and tourism.

Quick Facts About Lebanon

Coordinates	33.8547° N, 35.8623° E
Bordering Countries	Syria, Israel
Region / Continent	Asia (Middle East)
Total Area	~10,452 sq km
Population Density	~650 people per sq km
Highest Point	Qurnat as Sawda – 3,088 m
Major Rivers	Litani, Orontes
Climate Type	Mediterranean; hot, dry summers and cool, rainy winters
Famous For	Phoenician heritage, Lebanese cuisine, cedars, Mediterranean coast
Major Landmarks	Beirut, Baalbek, Jeita Grotto, Byblos, Cedars of God
Official Language	Arabic (French and English widely spoken)
Currency	Lebanese Pound (LBP)
Government Type	Unitary Confessional Republic
Time Zone	UTC+2 (Eastern European Time); UTC+3 (DST)
Major Exports	Jewelry, base metals, chemicals, fruits, textiles
Visitor Entry	Visa on arrival for many nationalities; restrictions vary