Beirut is the capital and largest city of Lebanon. After the destructive Lebanese civil war, Beirut underwent major reconstruction, and the redesigned historic city centre, marina, pubs and nightlife districts have once again rendered it a tourist attraction. The city is the focal point of the region's cultural life, renowned for its press, theatres, cultural activities, and nightlife.

Lebanon is in the Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Israel and Syria. The climate is mediterranean with mild to cool, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The Lebanon mountains experience heavy winter snows.

The official language is Arabic. Arabic and French predominate in the east of the capital Beirut and the north of the country, while Arabic and English are the main languages in west Beirut and the south. Both English and French are also widely used. The main religions are Islam and Christianity.

The economy of Lebanon is characterised by remittances from Lebanese abroad which account for one fifth of the country's economy. The thriving tourism and banking activities have made the services sector the most important part of the Lebanese economy employing nearly 65% of the workforce.

Lebanese people are known for their hospitality. Expatriate business dress is usually formal, comprising suits (and ties, for men).

The security risk for expatriates in Lebanon is low to medium. Risks include petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching, low levels of violent crime, cross-border shelling and incursions, protest action, and the threat of terrorism.

The currency of Lebanon is the Lebanese Pound (LBP). ATMs are common, especially in the main tourist / expatriate areas. International hotels mostly accept payment by credit card.

Medical facilities are good, however medical treatment in Lebanon can be expensive. Doctors are generally well qualified though nursing standards vary.

The population of Beirut is 2.1 Million (2016 est.), while the inflation rate is 3.48% (June 2017).

The cost of living for expatriates / professional migrants in Beirut as at 1 July 2017 is very high in comparison to other places in the world.

Beirut is ranked as a high degree of hardship location.