Since a new strain of COVID-19 was recently detected in Britain, countries around the world are closing their airports to flights from the United Kingdom.
However, despite the recommendations of Lebanon’s health experts, Lebanon has decided against banning flights from the UK.
It has decided that, instead of banning the flights, it will force all passengers to conduct a PCR test upon their arrival at the Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport, and a second PCR test after 72 hours from entering the country.
Before this, caretaker Health Minister Hamad Hasan had requested that flights from London be suspended “for a few days until things become clear” and that Lebanese who wish to visit Lebanon to avoid coming through British airports.
It’s estimated that more than 80,000 people are coming (or have already arrived) to Lebanon in December for the holidays.
Simultaneously with all the incoming travelers, Lebanon has decided to ease coronavirus restrictions over the holiday season.
Lebanon’s Interior Ministry has pushed back the night curfew which will now be between 3 a.m. and 5 a.m. starting December 23rd until January 1st.
We have a dedicated coronavirus section where you can find the latest news/updates about the pandemic in Lebanon, inform yourself with WHO-verified resources, and track the number of cases in Lebanon in real-time. Click here.
