UAE airlines flight touched down at Beirut’s Rafik Hariri International Airport on Wednesday, marking the first commercial arrival from the United Arab Emirates since the Gulf nation lifted its travel ban to Lebanon. The move is being seen as a strong sign of renewed confidence in Lebanon’s stability, following recent political changes and heightened security assurances from the country’s leadership.

The UAE’s decision to resume flights and allow its citizens to travel to Lebanon came after Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam provided security guarantees to Gulf ambassadors, including measures aimed at ensuring the safety of visitors, particularly along the airport road which was previously considered sensitive. The assurances were part of broader efforts to restore Lebanon’s image as a safe destination for tourism and investment.

A second Emirates flight arrived later in the day and was officially received by Lebanon’s Minister of Information, Paul Morcos, who was representing President Joseph Aoun at the airport.

To mark the occasion, Beirut airport staff decorated the arrivals hall with fresh flowers, creating a celebratory atmosphere as passengers disembarked. 

Several Emirati passengers arriving on Wednesday voiced their happiness to be back in Lebanon, noting the positive changes the country has witnessed, particularly the election of a new president. They said they expected an uptick in travel from the UAE in the coming days and praised the warm hospitality they received upon arrival.

استقبال المواطنين الإماراتيّين في مطار بيروت بالورود pic.twitter.com/F8aol9rbYf

— kataeb.org (@kataeb_Ar) May 7, 2025