Lebanon Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Lebanon, Middle East State; 10 450 km², 6.8 million residents (2019).Lebanon borders in the north and east to Syria and in the south to Israel and has a coast to the Mediterranean in the west. The capital is Beirut (1.6 million residents, 2018).

Country facts

al-Jumhūriyya al-Lubnāniyya / Republic of Lebanon
Country abbreviation: LB
Area: 10 452 km²
Population (2019): 6.8 million residents
Capital: Beirut
Main languages: Arabic
State: Republic
Head of State: Michel Aoun
Head of Government: Hassan Diab
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 8,270
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 7,690
Currency unit: 1 pound = 100 piaster
Currency code: LBP
Country number (telephony): 961
Internet Domain Name: lb
Time difference compared to Sweden: +1
National Day: November 22 (Independence Day, 1943)

Nature

Land use: forest (8%), agricultural land (30%), other (62%)
Highest mountain: Qurnat as-Sawda (3,087 m asl)

Population

Population density (2019): 650 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 1.3%; birth rate 17 ‰, death figure 4 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (26%), 15-64 (67%), 65- (7%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 77 years, women 81 years
Infant mortality (2019): 9 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 6 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.757 (place 80 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 89%
Most populous cities (2018): Beirut (1.6 million residents), Tripoli (450,000)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (4%), industry (13%), service (83%)
Exports (2017): US $ 3,524 million
Main export products: jewelry, metal, chemicals
Main exporting countries: China, United Arab Emirates, South Africa
Imports (2017): US $ 18,340 million
Main import products: oil products, vehicles, medicine
Main importing countries: China, Italy, Greece
Railway network (2017): 400 km

Geography

Location and Borders

Lebanon is a small but strategically important country located on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea in the Middle East. It is bordered by Syria to the north and east, Israel to the south, and the Mediterranean Sea to the west. Lebanon’s geographic location has historically made it a crossroads for various cultures, empires, and religions, and its proximity to Syria and Israel has influenced its political and military dynamics over the years. The country covers an area of approximately 10,452 square kilometers (4,036 square miles), making it one of the smallest countries in the region. Despite its size, Lebanon’s political, cultural, and historical importance has far outweighed its physical dimensions.

Lebanon’s location has also contributed to its trade and commerce. The capital, Beirut, has historically served as a vital port city that connected the Mediterranean world to the Levant and beyond. Over time, Lebanon’s strategic position has attracted a mix of neighboring and distant powers, each leaving its mark on the country’s culture, economy, and political structure.

Physical Features

Lebanon’s landscape is highly varied and consists of coastal plains, mountainous regions, and fertile valleys. The country is divided into two main mountain ranges: the Mount Lebanon Range, which runs parallel to the Mediterranean coast, and the Anti-Lebanon Mountains to the east. These mountains create a natural divide between Lebanon and Syria. The Mount Lebanon Range is characterized by high peaks, deep valleys, and a rugged terrain, with some peaks reaching over 3,000 meters (9,843 feet) above sea level. The highest peak in Lebanon is Qornet es-Sawda, which rises to 3,088 meters (10,131 feet).

The Bekaa Valley lies between these mountain ranges and is Lebanon’s agricultural heartland. The valley is a fertile region that stretches from the Syrian border in the north to the southern border with Israel. The valley is crucial for Lebanon’s food production, growing crops such as wheat, barley, potatoes, grapes, and apples. The region is also home to the famous Baalbek ruins, an important archaeological site that dates back to ancient times.

To the west, Lebanon has a short but significant coastline along the Mediterranean Sea, which is home to several cities, including Beirut, Tripoli, and Sidon. These coastal cities are vital for trade and tourism and are key economic centers in Lebanon.

Climate

Lebanon experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The coastal areas, including Beirut, experience moderate temperatures throughout the year, with average summer temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), and winter temperatures typically hovering between 10°C and 15°C (50°F and 59°F). The coastal areas also experience relatively high humidity, especially during the summer months.

In contrast, Lebanon’s mountainous regions have a more temperate climate. The Mount Lebanon Range and other highland areas experience cooler temperatures, and snow is common in the winter. These mountains are essential for Lebanon’s agriculture and tourism industry, as they offer skiing resorts during the winter months. The Bekaa Valley, located between the two mountain ranges, has a continental climate, with hot summers and cooler winters.

Rainfall is most abundant in the winter months, particularly along the western side of the mountains, where moisture-laden winds from the Mediterranean bring rain. The eastern side of the mountains, however, receives far less precipitation, contributing to a more arid climate. The diverse climate conditions in Lebanon are a key factor in the country’s rich agricultural output and biodiversity.

Natural Resources

Lebanon is endowed with limited natural resources compared to its neighbors. The country’s key resources include limestone, water, and arable land. The Bekaa Valley is the most agriculturally productive region in Lebanon, with fertile soils and ample water supply from the Orontes River, which flows through the valley. Despite the challenges of limited natural resources, Lebanon has been able to capitalize on its agricultural sector, growing products such as olives, citrus fruits, and vegetables, which are important for both domestic consumption and export.

In addition to agriculture, Lebanon has some mineral resources, including limestone, gypsum, and salt, though these are not as abundant as the natural resources found in neighboring countries like Syria or Iraq. The country’s strategic location along the Mediterranean also provides access to the sea, facilitating trade and economic exchange.

Lebanon has offshore oil and natural gas reserves, particularly in the eastern Mediterranean, although the exploration and development of these resources have been delayed by political instability and regional tensions. Despite these challenges, Lebanon remains an important regional trade and financial center, with a strong banking sector and a thriving tourism industry.

People

Population and Ethnic Composition

Lebanon has a population of approximately 6.8 million people. The population is ethnically diverse, with the majority of Lebanese people being Arab by ethnicity. However, Lebanon’s population also includes smaller communities of Armenians, Kurds, and other groups, reflecting the country’s history as a crossroads for various peoples and cultures. The Lebanese population is known for its diversity, with people of various religious and sectarian affiliations, including Christians, Muslims, and Druze, living side by side.

Lebanon is unique in that it is home to a variety of religious groups, and the country’s political system is structured around this diversity. The country is officially divided into 18 religious sects, with Christians and Muslims being the two largest groups. Among the Christian population, the Maronite Catholics, Greek Orthodox, and other denominations are most prominent. Among Muslims, the majority are Sunni, while a significant minority are Shia Muslims. There is also a Druze community, primarily found in the mountainous regions.

The diverse religious and ethnic makeup of Lebanon has shaped the country’s culture, politics, and society. However, Lebanon’s diversity has also led to sectarian tensions, which have at times resulted in political instability and violence, particularly during the Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990). The complex web of sectarian affiliations has had a significant impact on the country’s governance, with power divided between religious communities in a system known as confessionalism.

Language

The official language of Lebanon is Arabic, which is spoken by the majority of the population. However, due to the country’s historical ties to various empires and countries, many Lebanese people are multilingual. French is widely spoken, particularly in education, business, and government, as Lebanon was a French mandate territory from 1920 until its independence in 1943. Many Lebanese also speak English, especially in urban areas and among the younger generation, due to Lebanon’s strong connections with the West.

In addition to Arabic, French, and English, there are smaller communities that speak Armenian, Kurdish, and other languages. Armenian is particularly spoken by the Armenian population in Lebanon, which has a long history in the country dating back to the early 20th century, when many Armenians fled the genocide in the Ottoman Empire. These multilingual capabilities reflect the country’s diverse and cosmopolitan character, as well as its historical interactions with a range of cultures and nations.

Religion

Lebanon is a religiously diverse country, with Christianity, Islam, and Druzeism being the three main religions. Christianity, particularly the Maronite Catholic Church, has played a central role in Lebanon’s history, and the Maronite community continues to be one of the largest Christian groups in the country. The Greek Orthodox Church is also significant in Lebanon, particularly in the coastal cities, along with smaller Christian denominations, such as the Armenian Apostolic Church.

Islam is the largest religion in Lebanon, with Muslims making up about 54% of the population. The Muslim community is divided into two main sects: Sunni and Shia, with the Sunni Muslims being the majority. The Shia community, concentrated in the southern and Bekaa Valley regions, is politically significant and represented by groups like Hezbollah, a Shia political and militant group. Lebanon’s Shia population is primarily associated with the political party Amal and Hezbollah, both of which are involved in the governance and political dynamics of the country.

The Druze, a small but influential religious group, primarily live in the mountainous regions of Lebanon and in Syria and Israel. The Druze community has historically been known for its unique religious beliefs, which are distinct from both Islam and Christianity.

Lebanon’s religious diversity plays a central role in its national identity. The country’s constitution and political system are designed to reflect this diversity, with political power shared among the different sects. However, sectarian tensions have sometimes led to instability and violence, and Lebanon continues to grapple with the challenges of balancing religious diversity and national unity.

Social Structure

Lebanon’s social structure is deeply influenced by its religious diversity and historical legacies. The family is considered the cornerstone of Lebanese society, and it plays a central role in daily life. Family ties are very important, and it is common for extended families to live in close proximity to one another. Social gatherings and family events are significant in Lebanese culture, and the family unit often provides support and security in both emotional and financial terms.

Lebanon is also characterized by a relatively high level of social stratification. Urban areas such as Beirut are home to a wealthier, cosmopolitan elite, often involved in business, finance, and politics. In contrast, rural areas tend to be poorer, with agricultural communities relying on family-owned businesses and agricultural work for survival. There are also significant disparities between different religious and sectarian groups in terms of wealth, education, and access to resources, which can lead to social tensions.

In terms of gender, Lebanon has made significant strides in promoting women’s rights, but gender equality remains a challenge. Women are active in the workforce and in politics, but traditional gender roles and conservative religious views often limit women’s opportunities in certain areas. Nevertheless, women in Lebanon continue to push for greater rights and representation, and women’s organizations play a vital role in advocating for social change.

Economy

Key Industries

Lebanon has a diverse, service-oriented economy that has been heavily shaped by its history, geographic location, and political challenges. The country has a highly developed banking and financial sector, and Beirut is known as the financial capital of the Middle East, attracting investors from across the region and globally. The Lebanese banking sector is one of the most advanced in the Arab world, and the country has a relatively high level of private investment.

Other important sectors in the Lebanese economy include tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. Tourism is a key driver of economic activity, with Lebanon attracting visitors from all over the world due to its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Lebanon’s archaeological sites, Mediterranean beaches, ski resorts, and vibrant cities make it a major tourist destination in the region.

Agriculture also plays a central role in Lebanon’s economy, particularly in the rural regions. Lebanon is known for its production of fruits, vegetables, olives, and grapes, as well as its wine industry, which dates back thousands of years. The country has a long history of viticulture, and Lebanese wines are increasingly recognized internationally.

The manufacturing sector in Lebanon is small but growing. The country produces textiles, clothing, food products, and handicrafts, much of which is exported to the Middle East and other regions. However, Lebanon’s manufacturing sector has been limited by political instability, the lack of infrastructure development, and competition from other countries with lower production costs.

Agriculture and Livestock

Agriculture remains an important sector in Lebanon, employing a significant portion of the population, particularly in rural areas. The fertile plains of the Bekaa Valley and other lowland regions are used for the cultivation of various crops, including grains, vegetables, fruits, and tobacco. Lebanon is particularly known for its production of olives, olive oil, citrus fruits, apples, and grapes.

Livestock farming, particularly goat and sheep farming, is also significant, with the production of dairy products, meats, and wool. The country is also famous for its honey and its olive oil production, which is a key element of its culinary tradition. However, agriculture in Lebanon faces several challenges, including water scarcity, land fragmentation, and the impact of political instability on rural development.

Economic Challenges

Lebanon’s economy faces significant challenges. The country has experienced years of political instability, which has disrupted its economic growth and development. The Lebanese civil war (1975-1990), followed by ongoing political tensions and conflicts, has left lasting scars on the country’s infrastructure and institutions. Corruption, inefficient public services, and a lack of investment in key sectors have hindered Lebanon’s economic progress.

Additionally, the Lebanese economy has been heavily dependent on remittances from the large Lebanese diaspora, which has served as a major source of income for the country. The recent political and financial crises have led to a sharp decline in foreign investments and remittances, contributing to an economic downturn. The devaluation of the Lebanese pound, inflation, and the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic have further exacerbated these challenges.

Despite its potential in sectors such as banking, agriculture, and tourism, Lebanon’s economy is highly vulnerable to regional tensions, political instability, and external economic shocks. The country’s public debt has also been rising steadily, leading to concerns about its financial sustainability.