Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY)
ICAO: OLBA
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Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) Arrivals & Departures — check real-time flight status, delays, gate changes, and baggage claim information for all domestic and international flights at BEY.
Overview
Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (IATA: BEY, ICAO: OLBA) is the primary and only international airport serving Beirut, the capital of Lebanon. Located about 9 km south of Beirut city centre in the Khaldeh area, BEY is the home base of Middle East Airlines (ME), the national carrier of Lebanon, and the main gateway to the country.
Named after Rafic Hariri, the former Prime Minister of Lebanon who was assassinated in 2005, the airport opened in 1954 and has undergone several major renovations, most recently in 2017. The airport operates a single main terminal building with four concourses (East, West, North, and South), a dedicated General Aviation Terminal for private jets, and a VIP Terminal for state visits and dignitaries.
BEY connects over 60 destinations across the Middle East, Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America, served by more than 40 airlines. Popular routes include Dubai (DXB), Doha (DOH), Istanbul (IST), Cairo (CAI), Paris (CDG), London (LHR), Frankfurt (FRA), and Amman (AMM). The airport is the main hub for Middle East Airlines (ME) and a key base for Trans Mediterranean Airways (TMA) cargo operations.
In 2024, Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport served approximately 8 million passengers. The airport is a key part of Lebanon’s tourism and trade infrastructure, serving as the main entry point for visitors to Beirut, Byblos, Baalbek, and the country’s Mediterranean coast.
Popular Destinations from Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY)
International routes include Paris (CDG), London (LHR), Frankfurt (FRA), Amsterdam (AMS), Rome (FCO), Madrid (MAD), New York (JFK), Montreal (YUL), and São Paulo (GRU). The airport connects over 60 destinations across the Middle East, Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America, operated by more than 40 airlines including Middle East Airlines (ME), Air France (AF), Lufthansa (LH), British Airways (BA), KLM (KL), Turkish Airlines (TK), Emirates (EK), Qatar Airways (QR), and Aeroflot (SU).
Terminals
Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport operates a single main passenger terminal that was extensively renovated and expanded between 2015 and 2017. The terminal is divided into four airside concourses — East, West, North, and South — all connected to a central processing hall.
The East and West Concourses serve most international flights, including those operated by Middle East Airlines (ME), Air France (AF), Lufthansa (LH), British Airways (BA), and KLM (KL). They feature multiple gates, duty-free shopping, and dining options.
The North Concourse is primarily used by regional carriers and low-cost airlines, including flydubai (FZ) and some charter operators. The South Concourse handles select international and cargo-related flights.
The airport also operates a dedicated General Aviation Terminal for private jets and a VIP Terminal for state visits and dignitaries. The main terminal features a large duty-free area, multiple lounges (including the Middle East Airlines Cedar Lounge and the Alfa Lounge), and a transit area for connecting passengers.
The minimum connection time at BEY is 60 minutes for most transfers. All concourses are within the same terminal building, so transfers are quick and straightforward.
| Terminal | Purpose | Airlines |
|---|---|---|
| Main Terminal — East & West Concourses | International flights | Middle East Airlines (ME), Air France (AF), Lufthansa (LH), British Airways (BA), KLM (KL), Emirates (EK), Qatar Airways (QR) |
| Main Terminal — North Concourse | Regional carriers & low-cost airlines | flydubai (FZ), select regional carriers, charter operators |
| General Aviation & VIP Terminal | Private jets & state visits | Private aviation, charter operators, state visits |
Transportation
Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport is well connected to Beirut city centre and the rest of Lebanon through several transport options. The airport is located about 9 km south of central Beirut on the coastal highway.
Taxi
Official taxis are available 24/7 outside the Arrivals hall. A journey to central Beirut costs approximately USD 20–30 and takes 15–30 minutes depending on traffic. Fares are usually negotiated in advance, and US dollars are widely accepted. Only licensed airport taxis should be used.
Ride-hailing
Uber and Bolt operate at BEY. Pick-up zones are clearly marked outside the terminal. Prices are usually 20–30% cheaper than regular taxis, but can be higher during peak hours. The journey to central Beirut takes about 15–30 minutes.
Private Transfer
Book a driver in advance for a stress-free arrival. Prices start from $25 for a sedan, including meet & greet in the arrivals hall. Popular with families and business travellers.
Hotel Shuttle
Many hotels in Beirut offer complimentary shuttle services for their guests. Check with your hotel in advance to arrange pickup. Free shuttles are available at major hotels such as the Phoenicia Hotel Beirut and the Four Seasons Hotel Beirut.
Car Rental
Major international and local car rental companies operate at BEY, including Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Budget, and Sixt. Pickup counters are located in the Arrivals hall of the main terminal.
Public Bus
Public bus services are limited at the airport. There is no dedicated express airport bus. For budget travellers, shared taxis and local minibuses (service) are available from the main road outside the airport, but these are not recommended for first-time visitors with luggage.
Car Rental at Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY)
Compare live rates from Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Budget, Sixt, and trusted local suppliers. Pickup counters are located in the Arrivals hall of the main terminal. Free cancellation on most bookings.
🚗 Search available cars →Hotels Near Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY)
Choose from 30+ hotels near Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport — from budget options to premium brands like the Phoenicia Hotel Beirut, Four Seasons Hotel Beirut, and Le Gray Beirut, all about 15–30 minutes away. Free airport shuttle available at most properties.
🏨 See nearby hotels →Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) Map & Layout
Interactive map showing terminals, parking, taxi stands, ride-hailing pickup zones, and nearby landmarks.
Airport Information & Contacts
Khaldeh, Beirut, Lebanon