How to Call Lebanon
Complete guide to dialing Lebanon (country code +961)
Planning to make a phone call to Lebanon? Whether you're connecting with family, friends, or business contacts, understanding the proper dialing process is essential. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to call Lebanon from anywhere in the world. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions, including country codes and area codes, to ensure your call goes through successfully. You'll also learn about common mistakes people make when calling Lebanon and how to avoid them. Additionally, we'll explore Lebanese phone etiquette to help you make a great impression, and provide a list of useful numbers for emergencies and services. By the end of this guide, calling Lebanon will be straightforward and stress-free.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Lebanon from abroad, follow this universal format: Exit Code + 961 + Local Number (without leading zero)
Lebanon's country code is +961. The exit code varies by country—011 for USA/Canada, 00 for most European and Asian countries, or simply + from mobile phones.
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions
Step 1: Dial your country's exit code
Step 2: Dial 961 (Lebanon's country code)
Step 3: Drop the leading zero from the local number
Step 4: Dial the remaining local number
Specific Examples by Number Type
Example 1 - Lebanese Mobile Number (starts with 03, 70, 71, 76, 78, 79, 81):
Local format: 03 123 456
- From USA: 011-961-3-123-456
- From UK: 00-961-3-123-456
- From mobile anywhere: +961-3-123-456
Example 2 - Beirut Landline (area code 1):
Local format: 01 234 567
- From USA: 011-961-1-234-567
- From UK: 00-961-1-234-567
- From mobile anywhere: +961-1-234-567
Example 3 - Tripoli Landline (area code 6):
Local format: 06 789 123
- From USA: 011-961-6-789-123
- From UK: 00-961-6-789-123
- From mobile anywhere: +961-6-789-123
Important Notes About Leading Zeros
Lebanese phone numbers always begin with zero when dialing domestically (like 03 or 01). You must drop this zero when calling internationally. For instance, if someone gives you their number as 03 456 789, you dial 961-3-456-789 from abroad, not 961-03-456-789.
Country-Specific Exit Codes
- USA/Canada: 011
- UK/Europe/Asia: 00
- Australia: 0011
- Mobile phones worldwide: Simply use + (press and hold 0)
The + symbol automatically substitutes your country's exit code, making it the easiest method for international calls.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Lebanon, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
1. Forgetting to drop the leading zero
Lebanese phone numbers start with 0 domestically, but you must remove it when dialing internationally. If the local number is 03 123 456, dial +961 3 123 456, not +961 03 123 456.
2. Using the wrong exit code
Many callers use their own country's exit code incorrectly. Instead of remembering various codes (011 for US, 00 for Europe), simply use the + symbol, which works universally from mobile phones.
3. Confusing the country code with area codes
Lebanon's country code is +961, not to be confused with mobile prefixes like 3, 70, or 71. Always dial +961 first, then the mobile or landline prefix without the zero.
4. Adding unnecessary spaces or dashes
While spaces help readability, incorrect placement can confuse dialing systems. Follow the format: +961 X XXX XXX for mobiles or +961 X XXX XXXX for landlines.
5. Not accounting for the 8-digit format
After removing the leading zero, Lebanese numbers are typically 8 digits. If your number seems too short or long, double-check it.
Cultural Etiquette
When calling someone in Lebanon, phone etiquette reflects the country's warm, relationship-focused culture while maintaining professional standards when appropriate.
Greetings and Tone
Start calls with "Marhaba" (hello) or "Keefak/Keefik" (how are you - masculine/feminine). Lebanese appreciate friendly conversation, so expect brief personal exchanges before business discussions. Even professional calls often begin with pleasantries about family and health.
Business vs Personal Calls
Business calls should be more formal initially, using titles like "Sayyid" (Mr.) or "Sayyida" (Mrs.) until invited to be casual. Personal calls are relaxed and conversational. Lebanese speakers often overlap and interrupt enthusiastically—this shows engagement, not rudeness.
Best Times to Call
Avoid calling during lunch (1-3 PM) or late evenings after 9 PM. Business calls work best mid-morning or mid-afternoon. Friday afternoons and Sundays may be reserved for family time, depending on religious background.
Voice Messages
Leaving detailed voice messages is common and appreciated. Don't be surprised if responses come via WhatsApp instead—many Lebanese prefer messaging apps for follow-ups.
Cultural Considerations
Lebanese conversations tend to be expressive and warm. Speaking volumes may be louder than some cultures expect—this reflects enthusiasm. Don't rush calls; relationship-building takes priority over efficiency. If someone doesn't answer, wait at least a few hours before calling again unless urgent. Patience and personal connection matter more than strict punctuality.
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Emergency Numbers
Essential Emergency Numbers:
- Police (Internal Security Forces): 112 or 999
- Ambulance (Red Cross): 140
- Fire Department (Civil Defense): 125
- General Emergency Hotline: 112 (connects to police, ambulance, or fire services)
Important Information:
All emergency numbers are toll-free and accessible from both landlines and mobile phones throughout Lebanon. The 112 number follows European standards and operates 24/7. However, English-speaking operators may not always be available, particularly outside major cities like Beirut. Arabic and French are more commonly spoken by emergency dispatchers.
Response times can vary significantly depending on your location, with faster services in urban areas. It's advisable to have the contact information for nearby private hospitals and ambulance services as backup options, as they sometimes provide quicker assistance.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 120: Directory inquiries for local numbers
- 1515: Telephone directory information
International Services
- 100: International operator assistance
- 1212: International directory assistance
Tourist & Travel Support
- 1450: Tourist police helpline (multilingual support)
- Ministry of Tourism hotline: +961 1 340 940
Embassy & Consular Services
Contact your embassy directly for passport issues, legal assistance, or citizen services. Major embassies are located in Beirut's diplomatic quarter.
Utility & Municipal Services
- 1707: Électricité du Liban (electricity issues)
- 1717: Water authority complaints
- 1735: Beirut municipality services
Transportation
- 1213: Taxi complaints and inquiries
- Airport information: +961 1 628 000
Consumer Protection
- 1739: Consumer protection hotline
Keep these numbers accessible during your stay in Lebanon for non-emergency assistance.
Tips for Calling Lebanon
When calling Lebanon, factor in the UTC+2 time zone (UTC+3 during daylight saving time from March to October). If you're calling from New York, Lebanon is typically 7 hours ahead, so a 9 AM call in New York reaches Beirut at 4 PM.
For business calls, schedule appointments in advance—Lebanese professionals appreciate punctuality and planning. Standard business hours run Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with many offices closing between 12:30-2 PM for lunch. Avoid calling on weekends, particularly Sundays, when most businesses are closed.
Plan around major holidays including Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Easter (both Western and Orthodox dates), and Christmas. Lebanon observes both Christian and Muslim holidays, so check the calendar beforehand.
For off-peak international rates, call during evening hours Lebanon time (morning in the Americas). However, prioritize recipient convenience over cost savings for important business matters.
To ensure clear communication, speak slowly and confirm key details via email afterward. Mobile reception is generally excellent in urban areas, but connections can falter in mountainous regions. Consider using internet-based calling apps as reliable alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Lebanon is +961. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Lebanon from anywhere in the world. It identifies Lebanon within the global telephone numbering system.
To dial Lebanon from your cell phone, start by dialing + (or your country's international access code), then 961 (Lebanon's country code), followed by the local phone number without the leading zero. For example: +961 1 234567 for a Beirut number.
Yes, you must drop the leading zero from the local Lebanese phone number when calling internationally. Lebanese numbers start with 0 domestically, but when dialing from abroad, remove the 0 and dial +961 followed by the remaining digits.
The cheapest way to call Lebanon is using ZippCall, which offers affordable pay-as-you-go international calling rates. With ZippCall, you can call from your web browser, iPhone, or Android device with no contracts, no subscriptions, and no hidden fees—just transparent, low-cost rates for calling Lebanon.
In Lebanon, the main emergency numbers are: 112 (general emergency), 140 (Internal Security Forces), 175 (Civil Defense/Fire), and 125 (Red Cross ambulance). These numbers can be dialed directly from any phone within Lebanon for immediate assistance.
Yes! ZippCall allows you to make calls to Lebanon directly from your web browser. Simply visit the ZippCall website, add credit to your account, and start calling Lebanese phone numbers instantly without needing to download any additional software.
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