Location: Middle East
Local Time: GMT+2
From 29 Oct 11 to 25 Mar 12 GMT +2
From 25 Mar 12 to 27 Oct 12 GMT +3
From 28 Oct 12 to 30 Mar 13 GMT +2
From 31 Mar 13 to 26 Oct 13 GMT +3
Capital City: Beirut
Population: 4.22 million
Area: 10,400357,021 square km, 6,462 square miles.
Language(s): Arabic, English, French
Dialling Code: 961
Emergency: Police: 112/160. Fire: 175/125. Ambulance: 140/125
TV Standard:
Driving: Driving is on the right. International Driving Permit recommended, temporary licence available from local authorities on presentation of UK licence
Electricity: 220V AC 50Hz
Currency: Lebanese Lira (LBP 1 = 100 Piastres)
Notes: LBP: 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, 100,000
Coins: LBP: 50, 100, 250, 500
Credit Cards/Travellers Cheques: Credit cards and travellers cheques are widely accepted
Opening Hours
Bank: 0830-1230 Mon-Sat
Office: 0800-1800 Mon-Fri (private sector), 0800-1400 Mon-Thur, 0800-1100 Fri, 0800-1400 Sat (Government offices)
Shops: 0900-1800 Mon-Sat (winter), 0900-1800 Mon-Fri, 0900-1300 Sat (summer), 0830-1930 (small supermarkets), 0800-2300 (large supermarkets)
Public Holidays
2012
25 Dec : Christmas Day
Business/Social Hints: Many executives speak French and English. On social occasions, be punctual and dress as for business meetings unless otherwise indicated. The minimum drinking age is 18 years
Tipping: A service charge is usually added to restaurant & hotel bills. Tips for taxis are not necessary
