- 07
- May
- 2025
They had been away for years, opting instead for the beaches of Cyprus, the alleyways of Athens or the French Riviera. But now, the Emiratis are preparing a major return to Lebanon. With the travel ban lifted, an entire sector – hotels, restaurants, airlines, car rentals – is gearing up for their comeback… and getting ready to welcome them.
After being away from Lebanon for years, the Emiratis are finally coming back. The lifting of the travel ban – announced on Sunday and taking effect today, Wednesday, May 7, 2025 – has been welcomed by tourism industry professionals, who see it as a potential boost for a struggling sector. Pierre Achkar, the President of the Federation of Tourism Syndicates and the Hotel Owners’ Syndicate, told This is Beirut that Emirati citizens make up between 10 and 15% of Gulf visitors to Lebanon, and that their average spending is the highest among tourists from the region.
A Long-Awaited Return
Before the travel ban, Emiratis were regular visitors to Lebanon, playing a significant role in the country’s tourism economy. Their spending typically included uxury hotels, high-end dining, shopping and leisure activities. Their return is expected to have a positive impact on the sector – boosting hotel occupancy rates and driving consumer spending in restaurants and retail.
The Hope for a Saudi Return
While the return of the Emiratis is positive news, industry professionals are also hoping that the Saudis will follow suit. Prior to the 2021 diplomatic crisis between Lebanon and Gulf countries, Saudis were the highest spenders among foreign tourists in Lebanon. The cost of their stay accounted for approximately 20% of the country’s tourism revenue, with average spending per trip exceeding $10,000 – well above the global average.
Their prolonged absence has created a significant void, both economically and symbolically. In a promising move for Lebanon’s tourism sector, a specialized Saudi technical delegation is set to visit Lebanon in the coming weeks. The goal is to assess the obstacles hindering the influx of Saudi tourists and to implement effective solutions to address these challenges.
Saudi authorities recognize the strategic importance of tourism in Lebanon’s economic recovery.
A Welcome Relief for the Sector
The return of the Emiratis marks the first step in the revival of Lebanese tourism. It offers industry professionals “a valuable boost to morale and a sign of hope for the future.” According to Pierre Achkar, “This is the beginning of a new era.” As for Saudi Arabia, he believes, “We are on the right track.”
Meanwhile, tourism professionals are preparing to welcome Emirati visitors this summer, hoping that other Gulf nationals will soon follow. Hotel bookings and travel offers are already underway, and industry experts are optimistic about a gradual recovery.
With its rich cultural heritage, cuisine and renowned hospitality, Lebanon is ready to reclaim its position as a favorite destination for Gulf tourists. All that remains is to hope that the Saudis, and perhaps others, will also return to enjoy this beloved country.
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