Lebanon has one commercial airport — Beirut Rafic Hariri International (BEY), named after the late Prime Minister assassinated in 2005. The airport serves as the hub for Middle East Airlines (MEA) and handles substantial Lebanese diaspora traffic to Europe, Australia, the Gulf, and the Americas. Outdoor smoking areas at the terminal accommodate smokers, in line with Lebanon’s general indoor smoking restrictions in enclosed public spaces.
Beirut Rafic Hariri International (BEY)
Lebanon’s only commercial airport. MEA hub. Outdoor smoking areas at terminal entrances.
Tips for Smokers at Beirut Airport
- BEY outdoor-only
- Mediterranean climate generally pleasant
- Cigarettes inexpensive in Lebanon (~LBP 50,000-80,000/pack)
- Lebanon’s high adult smoking rate means smokers are culturally accommodated
- For long-haul transit, route via Gulf hubs for indoor facilities
Lebanon Airports Compared: Indoor, Outdoor & After Security
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you smoke at Beirut Airport (BEY)?
Yes — at designated outdoor areas. Beirut Rafic Hariri International (BEY), Lebanon’s only commercial airport, has outdoor smoking areas near the terminal. Lebanon has one of the world’s highest adult smoking rates, but indoor smoking at the airport is restricted under enclosed-public-space regulations. Outdoor zones near terminal entrance accommodate smokers.
Where are the smoking areas at Beirut Airport?
Yes — Beirut Rafic Hariri has outdoor smoking areas at terminal entrances. The airport is the hub for Middle East Airlines (MEA) and handles substantial Lebanese diaspora traffic to Europe, Australia, and the Gulf. Smoking restricted to outdoor zones.
Are e-cigarettes and vapes allowed at Beirut Airport?
Yes — vapes are permitted at Beirut Airport, treated similarly to cigarettes (outdoor zones only). Lebanon has limited specific regulation on e-cigarettes.
Can I smoke during a Beirut airport layover?
Yes — but only by accessing outdoor zones, which may require exiting security. For long-haul transit smokers, Gulf airports (Doha, Dubai) provide better post-security indoor facilities. Beirut works for Lebanon-specific travel and shorter regional connections.
What should I expect at Beirut Airport as a smoker?
Yes — expect outdoor zones at terminal entrances. Lebanon’s high adult smoking rate (~38%) means smokers are well-accommodated culturally even where infrastructure is basic. Bring water for warm-weather smoke breaks. Mediterranean climate generally pleasant, though summer can be hot/humid.
