Latest news with #LauraLahoud
Time Out Abu Dhabi
6 days ago
- Business
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Wizz Air just announced direct flights from Abu Dhabi to Beirut
Big news for frequent flyers and falafel fans – Wizz Air Abu Dhabi has just launched its very first direct route to Beirut. That's right, one of the UAE's favourite ultra-low-fare airlines is now connecting the capital with Lebanon's cultural powerhouse and it's doing it for less than the price of a fancy dinner out. Flights kicked off on Tuesday June 4 and now run three times a week – every Monday, Wednesday and Friday – with one-way fares starting from just Dhs249. It's the only ultra-low-cost direct connection between Abu Dhabi and Beirut, making it a game-changer for Lebanese expats, spontaneous city-breakers and anyone dreaming of a weekend in the mountains followed by a mezze marathon. Flights are already close to fully booked for the next few weeks – so if you're thinking of heading to the Levantine coast for a breezy escape, now's the time to jump online. And while you're there, tick off Beirut's Raouché Rocks, its buzzing Downtown district or the sprawling souks. Or go further afield with quick day trips to Batroun, Byblos or the Chouf Mountains – all within easy reach once you land. The new Beirut route is just the latest addition to Wizz Air Abu Dhabi's growing network across the Middle East, Central Asia and Europe. Route Operating days Starting from Fares from Abu Dhabi – Beirut Monday, Wednesday, Friday 4 June 2025 Dhs249 Tamara Vallois, head of commercial at Wizz Air said: 'Today marks a historic occasion of Wizz Air Abu Dhabi's first landing in Lebanon. This new route opens up more opportunities for families, businesses, and tourists to travel affordably between two vibrant capitals, which is already underlined by the fact that our flights for the upcoming weeks are nearly all sold out. 'We stay committed to contributing to the Abu Dhabi ecosystem by boosting tourism and business links between the countries and our crew looks forward to seeing many happy customers on board soon for a well-deserved summer vacation visiting loved ones or discovering the many gems this incredible country has to offer.' H.E. Laura Lahoud, Minister of Tourism for Lebanon, added: 'The launch of direct flights between the UAE capital and Beirut by Wizz Air Abu Dhabi marks a significant milestone in our mission to revitalise Lebanon's tourism sector. 'This new route strengthens regional connectivity, fosters cultural exchange and aligns with our vision of making Lebanon more accessible to travellers. It will also be an important driver of travel demand and supports the creation of jobs and economic growth. We welcome this partnership and look forward to more visitors experiencing the beauty, rich history and renowned hospitality that Lebanon has to offer.' Need some travel inspo? Travelling from Abu Dhabi is about to be so much faster Zayed International Airport is the world's first airport to make this change 18 countries offering visa-on-arrival to UAE residents Here's where to go UAE citizens now get visa-on-arrival for India: a game-changer for travellers That quick trip to India just got even easier
Daily Mirror
31-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
'Beautiful' Med country looks just like Greece but FCDO warns against visiting
A stunning Mediterranean country featuring golden sand, beach clubs, and ubiquitous history is 'redesigning' the way it approaches tourism following an explosive conflict Boasting 139 miles of pristine Mediterranean coastline, luxury holiday resorts, and 32C temperatures - this 'beautiful' country could easily be mistaken for Greece. Last year, a staggering 1.31 million tourists flocked to Lebanon, lured in by the country's ancient ruins, golden sandy beaches, and stunning architecture. The influx marks a 32.1 per cent decrease in visitor numbers compared to 2023, which can largely be attributed to the conflict between Israel and Lebanese Hizballah. However, after a ceasefire came into force on November 27, 2024, Lebanon has been grappling to restore its image as a holiday destination. Laura Lahoud, the country's Minister of Tourism, says Lebanon is entering a 'new chapter' - adding: "We are redesigning the tourism journey to meet modern expectations. This includes higher hospitality standards and consistent, transparent pricing. For Gulf visitors in particular, we are encouraging medical, wellness, and cultural offerings that reflect their current expectations, grounded in authenticity, not nostalgia." On March 27, the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) updated its advice for Lebanon - removing the strict warning to avoid travelling to the entire country. Now, the body advises against all travel to areas in Beirut and Mount Lebanon Governorate - including the following neighbourhoods: Tariq el Jdideh Bir Hassan (excluding the Rafiq Hariri Hospital and the Ministry of Public Health) Ghobeiry Chiayah (south of the Rizkallah Semaan Road and west of (but not including) the Old Saida Road) Haret Hraik Burj Al Barajneh Mraije Laylake The FCDO's map also shows long stretchers of the country that have an 'advise against all but essential travel' includes spots such as Jezzine, Zgharta, Bcharre, Sidon, and Kfaroue. However, much of the coastline has now turned green - which means tourists can visit but should check the FCDO's advice before travelling. Under its 'Safety and Security' page, the FCDO highlights multiple risks tourists should consider if visiting the country, including potential terrorist attacks, crime, drug smuggling, and sexual assault. "The Lebanese Criminal Code includes a general provision concerning 'every sexual act against nature'," the FCDO adds. "Lebanese courts might consider that this includes same-sex sexual activity. A criminal offence under this provision is punishable by a prison sentence of up to a year." Despite the barrage of warnings, travel enthusiasts are still flocking to the country - desperate to show its more luxurious side. Last year, TikTok account Wanderlust Family shared a video of their trip to Lebanon, comparing it to the insatiably popular country of Greece. "Be honest, how many of you thought Lebanon was so beautiful?" the account wrote. "The news gives you a whole wrong picture of this beautiful country! The Lebanese love to party and if you're travelling to Lebanon, you absolutely have to visit a beach club." Hundreds of viewers flocked to the comments section to hail Lebanon's beauty, with one user writing: "Even as a Greek, I can easily say Lebanon has the most beautiful people and the best food. I can't wait to go back." Another said: "I literally want to go so bad," while a third added: "Wow, so beautiful."
Qatar Tribune
25-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Lebanese tourism minister hails Qatar's support
BEIRUT: Lebanon's Minister of Tourism HE Laura Lahoud has hailed the State of Qatar's continuous support for her country and lauded the deep-rooted Lebanese-Qatari relations. In a statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA), she emphasized that one of the Lebanese government's top priorities is the return of Arab tourists to Lebanon and its commitment to strengthening strong relations with Arab and GCC states. She noted the special ties between the Lebanese Republic and the State of Qatar and called on Qatari citizens to visit Lebanon. The minister said that the Lebanese government is taking all necessary steps to restore confidence in Lebanon, both domestically and internationally, under a new presidential term and a new government focused on strengthening the rule of law and constitutional institutions. She also affirmed Lebanon's decision to strengthen and extend the state's authority and that of the Lebanese army over the entire Lebanese territory, in order to maintain security and ensure the safety of citizens, residents, and tourists. Lahoud pointed out that her country's government is undertaking significant reform measures to regain trust after the successive crises the country has endured. It has also launched numerous initiatives to promote tourism, most notably enhancing airport security measures and monitoring prices to attract visitors, she added. She explained that the Ministry of Tourism's plan emphasizes the importance of year-round tourism in Lebanonâ€'not just during the summer seasonâ€'through collaboration with the private sector, especially given Lebanon's rich tourism assets, including natural beauty, as well as medical, cultural, and eco-tourism. Lebanon is preparing to host a series of cultural and artistic festivals and events during the upcoming summer season, which will enhance the country's appeal as a preferred tourist destination and encourage more visitors to come, she added. The Lebanese Minister of Tourism expressed her optimism for a promising summer season in Lebanon, with expectations of a significant increase in the number of Arab and international tourists eager to experience the country's diverse tourism offerings.
