Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY) โ Taxi Fare Guide
Beirut-Rafic Hariri Airport (BEY) is only about 9 km from central Beirut, so the drive is short, but the taxi scene at arrivals is famously chaotic. The Ministry of Public Works and Transport publishes an official price list: for Beirut and its suburbs the set fare is roughly $18 during the day (06:00-22:00) and $22 at night (22:00-06:00). Ask to see this list or state the official rate to avoid being overcharged.
Taxis here do not use meters, so you must agree the fare before getting in. Unauthorized drivers routinely quote $30-$40 for the same trip, so decline inflated first offers. Look for the official airport taxi desk rather than accepting a ride from someone who approaches you in the hall.
Ride-hailing is a cheaper, transparent alternative: Uber and Bolt both operate in Beirut and a trip to the centre often costs around $12-$15, though airport pickup rules and fuel-driven pricing can vary. Fares are commonly quoted and paid in US dollars, so carry small USD notes.
| Destination | Approx. fare | Time |
| Downtown / Hamra (official day rate) | $18 | 15-25 min |
| Downtown (official night rate) | $22 | 15-25 min |
| Uber / Bolt to centre | $12-$15 | 15-25 min |
| Jounieh / further suburbs | $25-$40 | 30-45 min |
Practical tips: Fix the price in dollars before you sit down, reference the ministry's official rate, and refuse pushy drivers quoting $35+. Booking Uber or Bolt from the app usually gives the fairest, hassle-free fare. Keep small USD bills, as change can be scarce.
Other ways to the city
Beirut has no airport rail or metro, so road transport is the only option, but there are cheaper choices than a private taxi.
- Service (servees) shared taxi - the classic Lebanese shared cab picks up several passengers along a route; from near the airport road expect roughly USD 2-5 per person to central Beirut, though drivers may charge a double fare with luggage.
- Public bus routes - buses running along the airport road toward Cola intersection and Hamra cost well under USD 1 and take 30-45 minutes, but they stop outside the terminal grounds and have no luggage space.
- Pre-booked private transfer - fixed-price cars and minivans arranged online or through hotels cost about USD 25-45 and include meet-and-greet at arrivals.
- Car rental - desks operate in the arrivals hall from roughly USD 30-50 per day, useful for trips to Byblos, the Bekaa Valley or the mountains.
Beirut โ Highlights in photos
Fares are researched from official and public sources and are approximate โ always confirm the meter or fixed fare before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
What is a fair taxi fare from Beirut Airport to the city centre?
Is Uber available in Beirut?
How long does the transfer to Beirut city centre take?
Is it safe to take a taxi from Beirut Airport, and which currency should I pay in?
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