Smoking at Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY)

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Airport Rating

5

Before Security Smoking

Smoking is only permitted in designated areas outside the terminals.

After Security Smoking

Update from Woody, July 2023: The smoking lounge is now across from Gate 21, through the Znood el Sett cafeteria.

Update from Ka Wing, March 2023: Beirut airport in Lebanon, it's still at the same place at the Balkoumi cafe next to Gate 12. You have to walk through the cafe to get to it. No need to buy anything.

Beirut Smoking area

Update from RADZISŁAW, Feb 2020: BEY (Beirut) smoking area located just before gate 12 in Balkoumi restaurant.

Update from Jake on the 9th Feb 2019: Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) has a cafe Balkoumi with a smoking area but it is located next to gate 12, not 21 as mentioned. Gates 12 and 21 are located  completely different parts of the airport and at least to 12 you need to pass (one more) security control.

Further Information

Official Website

Read about Lebanon's Vaping Ban

Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) is Lebanon’s only operational commercial airport and the country’s main international gateway, located about 9 km south of central Beirut. It is operated by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and serves as the primary hub for Middle East Airlines (MEA). The airport features three runways, including its longest at 3,800 meters, capable of handling wide‑body aircraft. In 2023, BEY processed 7.1 million passengers and recorded 57,159 aircraft movements, underscoring its role as a critical regional transport hub . As of 2025–2026, the airport is undergoing a phased modernization program focused on improving passenger flow, expanding the East Gate departures hall, upgrading security screening, and introducing 30 new electronic e‑gates to speed up processing. These upgrades aim to enhance efficiency and traveler experience without constructing a new terminal, which remains in long‑term planning stages