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Some scams

Western Asia

Tourist scams in Lebanon

Taxi overcharging is the main scam concern described for visitors to Lebanon, especially in Beirut and at its airport. Other risks include short-changing, poor currency exchange deals and pickpocketing. There is no clear measure of how often these happen, so agree prices first and check cash transactions carefully.
  1. 1 TaxisCommonTaxi fare overchargingYou start a ride without agreeing on the fare, then face an inflated price. Beirut hail-taxis do not have fixed meters. Authorized airport taxis have an airport logo, but this does not guarantee an honest fare.Taxis and shared service taxis across Lebanon, including airport taxis at the arrivals level in Beirut. 3Read
  2. 2 Changing moneyOccasionalShort-changing when paying in dollarsYou pay in US dollars and receive too little change in Lebanese lira. Change may also contain both currencies, making the total harder to check.Cash payments where dollars are accepted and change is returned in Lebanese lira or mixed currencies.Read
  3. 3 Changing moneyOccasionalPoor exchange rates and fresh-dollar scam riskA poor exchange rate can leave you with far fewer lira than expected. Banks are described as having used an old rate far below the real rate. Visitors carrying fresh US dollars also face a general scam risk, though no specific method is described.Currency exchanges and banks. A specific warning about banks using an old exchange rate concerns Beirut. 3Read
  4. 4 TheftOccasionalPickpocketingSomeone steals cash or belongings from your pocket or bag. No specific distraction or approach is described.Beirut 1Read

Where to stay alert

  • Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport arrivals taxi areaAuthorized taxis beside the terminal are specifically linked to dishonest fares. An airport logo does not guarantee a fair price.
  • BeirutPickpocketing and overpricing are identified city-wide. Taxi drivers are the main overpricing concern; no specific pickpocketing street is named.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Agree on the fare and currency before entering any taxi or service taxi.
  • Clarify whether the fare covers a shared ride or a private trip.
  • Public transport vehicles have red number plates, but identification alone does not guarantee a fair fare.
  • Keep your destination and nearby landmarks ready to reduce misunderstandings.

Money

  • Confirm which currency a price uses.
  • Agree on the exchange rate when paying in dollars and receiving lira.
  • Count change and exchange payouts before walking away.
  • Compare exchange offers and avoid relying on an old published rate.
  • Keep most of your cash separate from the money you use for daily spending.

Cards and ATMs

  • Do not rely on cards or ATM withdrawals as your only way to pay.
  • Confirm card acceptance before making a purchase or using a service.
  • Keep your card issuer's contact details somewhere you can reach without your phone.
  • Check transactions and freeze a missing card promptly.

Your belongings

  • Keep bags closed and valuables out of easy reach.
  • Avoid keeping your phone or wallet in an open back pocket.
  • Split cash and keep a separate copy of important documents.
  • Check your belongings after unexpected close contact.

Police and officials

  • Register with your embassy after entering Lebanon.
  • Keep embassy contact details available offline.
  • Keep up with travel warnings during your stay.

What travellers say about Lebanon

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

What is the main scam concern for visitors?

Taxi overcharging is the main concern described, especially in Beirut. Agree on the total fare and currency before entering.

Can I trust an official airport taxi's price?

An airport logo does not guarantee an honest fare. Get a clear quote and compare prices before choosing a ride.

How do shared service taxis work?

Passengers share the vehicle and fare. Confirm that you are taking a shared service ride, rather than a private taxi, and agree on your fare first.

What should I check when paying in US dollars?

Confirm the exchange rate and count your change. It may be returned in lira or a mixture of dollars and lira.

Is a bank always the best place to exchange money?

Do not assume so. Banks are described as having used an old, much less favorable rate. Compare the final amount offered before handing over cash.

Can I depend on cards and ATMs?

Do not make them your only payment option. Confirm card acceptance locally and plan for cash payments.

What are lollars and fresh dollars?

Lollars are US dollars frozen in Lebanese bank accounts. Fresh dollars are available US dollars, including cash brought by visitors. Do not treat the two as interchangeable.

Where should I watch for pickpockets?

Pickpocketing is flagged in Beirut, but no particular street is identified. Keep your wallet, phone and bag secured.

Will police come if my wallet is stolen?

You can call 112, 911 or 999, but police may not attend small-scale theft. Still seek a report reference, freeze missing cards and keep evidence for your insurer.

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