London to Beirut (LHR–BEY) — Airlines, Schedules & Connections

British passport holders receive a free visa on arrival at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) for stays up to 30 days (extendable to 90 days). No fee, no advance application. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the entry date with at least one blank page. Your passport must not contain any Israeli stamps or visas; entry will be denied if it does.

Bring proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host invitation letter) and a return ticket. Extensions to 90 days are processed at the General Security office in Beirut (free, but bring two passport photos). Overstays incur a fine of roughly $50 per month. A second 90-day extension is possible with additional documentation.

Direct flights from London Heathrow to Beirut run about 4 hours 45 minutes on MEA (Middle East Airlines). One-stop connections via Istanbul, Paris, or Frankfurt are common. The Lebanese pound (LBP) has a volatile parallel market rate; as of early 2026, the official Sayrafa rate and cash market rate can differ significantly. Carry fresh USD bills ($50 and $100 notes printed after 2013 preferred) as many transactions are conducted in dollars. No vaccination requirements for UK arrivals.

Heathrow Express runs from London Paddington to T5 and T2/T3 in 15–21 minutes (£37 single, cheaper booked online or via the Heathrow app). Elizabeth line (Crossrail) is a lower-cost alternative; Paddington to T5 in 34 minutes from £13.50 with an Oyster/contactless cap of £14.90. The Elizabeth line also serves central London stations including Bond Street, Farringdon, and Liverpool Street.London Underground Piccadilly line serves all terminals (T2/T3/T4/T5) from central London in 40–60 minutes (£6 with Oyster). Taxis (black cabs) from central London cost £55–90 depending on traffic. Coach services from Victoria Coach Station (National Express) cost from £10 booked in advance.