Is it safe to withdraw cash in Lebanon or not?
Used an ATM inside a mall in Beirut after dark - it worked fine and the security presence helped. But once I stepped outside, the street was empty. For peace of mind, daytime is a better window for withdrawing here.
Due to Lebanon’s economic crisis, cash availability is hit or miss. The ATM I used in Tripoli had withdrawal limits and was offline the next night. Locals suggested getting cash earlier and not depending on ATMs late in the day.
I stayed in Jounieh and noticed that most ATMs were only accessible until 9 PM. I used a Bank Audi machine attached to a fuel station - worked, but it was dim and no one was around. Not unsafe, but didn’t feel totally comfortable.
In Beirut, I withdrew Lebanese pounds from a Fransabank ATM near Hamra Street around 10 PM. The area was active and had a few cafes still open. ATM safety at night in Lebanon felt manageable here, but I wouldn’t try it in quiet suburbs.