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Population
Lebanon has a population of approximately 5.5 million people (as of 2023). The country is ethnically and religiously diverse, with a population consisting of Christians, Sunni Muslims, Shia Muslims, and Druze. Lebanon has also hosted a significant number of Syrian and Palestinian refugees.
Capital
The capital of Lebanon is Beirut, which serves as the country’s cultural, economic, and political center. Beirut is known for its historical landmarks, vibrant nightlife, and its role as a regional hub for trade and finance.
Economic Strength
Lebanon’s economy has traditionally been focused on the services sector, particularly financial services, tourism, and trade. However, since the financial and economic crisis of 2019-2020, the country has suffered a severe recession, with the Lebanese Lira losing much of its value. Despite the challenges, trade, especially due to its proximity to Europe and the Middle East, remains a key income source, and remittances from Lebanese expatriates are an important support for the economy.
Culture
Lebanese culture is one of the most diverse in the Middle East, blending Arab, French, and Ottoman influences. Lebanon is known for its rich traditions in literature, music, and cuisine, and for the various religious festivals celebrated by different communities. Lebanon is also a center for winemaking and is renowned for its hospitality. Religious holidays such as Eid al-Fitr, Easter, and Christmas, as well as national celebrations like Independence Day, play a significant role in Lebanese society.
Currency
The official currency of Lebanon is the Lebanese Lira (LBP). Since the economic crisis, the Lira has dramatically lost value, and many businesses also operate in US dollars.
Health Insurance and Social Security System
Lebanon has a public healthcare system, but it is underfunded, and many people rely on private health services. Many employees depend on private health insurance. The National Social Security Fund (NSSF) covers pensions, health benefits, and family allowances. Both employers and employees contribute to the system.
Employer Costs
Employers in Lebanon must contribute 23.5% of the employee’s gross salary to the social security system, covering health and pension insurance as well as family allowances. Employers are often also responsible for providing additional benefits, such as private health insurance and transport allowances.
Salary and Bonuses
Salaries in Lebanon vary widely by industry and region. The minimum wage is 675,000 LBP (as of 2023), but its purchasing power has significantly diminished due to the economic crisis. Bonuses are common, often paid at the end of the year or during religious holidays like Christmas or Eid. Many companies also provide inflation adjustments and allowances to employees.
Payroll
Employers are required to issue monthly payroll statements detailing the base salary, any bonuses, allowances, and deductions for social security contributions and taxes. Payroll transparency is important to comply with legal regulations.
Public Holidays
Lebanon observes numerous public holidays, both religious and national, including:
- New Year’s Day (January 1)
- Easter (both Orthodox and Catholic)
- Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan)
- Independence Day (November 22)
- Christmas (December 25)
Religious holidays follow either the Islamic lunar calendar or the Christian calendar.
Working Hours
The standard workweek in Lebanon is 48 hours, typically over six days, with an eight-hour workday. In some sectors, such as the public sector and international companies, the workweek is 40 hours. Overtime is permitted and must be paid at an additional rate.
Vacation
Employees in Lebanon are entitled to a minimum of 15 days of paid annual leave after completing one year of employment. The amount of leave can increase with years of service. In addition, employees are entitled to time off for public holidays. Vacation days are typically arranged in advance with the employer.
Sick Leave
In the event of illness, employees are entitled to paid sick leave. The duration of sick leave and the compensation depends on the length of employment. The NSSF covers part of the medical expenses, while the employer continues to pay the salary during sick leave, depending on the duration and contract terms.
Termination/Severance
Lebanese labor law requires a one-month notice period for termination. In cases of unjust dismissal, employees with at least one year of service are entitled to severance pay, usually equivalent to one month’s salary per year of service. The exact amount may vary depending on the length of service and contractual agreements.