Is It Safe to Travel in Lebanon by Taxis? Safety Tips for Locals & Tourists

Is it safe to travel to Lebanon now?

Taxis are one of the most common transportation choices in Lebanon, preferred by both locals and tourists.

Whether you’re commuting through Beirut’s bustling streets or planning to explore the serene Bekaa Valley, Lebanon taxis offer a convenient and safe way to move around without worrying about driving, navigation, or parking.

But as with any form of transport, it is natural to wonder whether it is safe to use taxis in Lebanon.

The short answer is yes. With the right precautions and a little awareness, taxis in Lebanon can be the safest, most efficient, and comfortable way to travel through the country.

This article explores how the taxi services in Lebanon work, what you should expect, and practical tips to ensure safety while travelling using a taxi in Lebanon.

What is the Taxi System in Lebanon?

Lebanon offers a wide range of taxi options and services, including:

Public Taxis: Registered taxis that can be recognized by their red license plates are one of the most comfortable public transportation options in Lebanon.

Shared Taxis: Another popular transport mode, particularly for locals, in Lebanon is shared taxis, where multiple passengers along the same route share a ride to reduce per-person fare.

Ride-hailing apps: Companies like CTaxi provide modern, app-based taxi booking services with advanced features like real-time tracking, verified drivers, and enhanced security.

Unregistered/private taxis: They offer cheap fares and a scope for negotiation, but the lack of regulation makes them less safe.

Is It Safe to Travel By Taxis in Lebanon?

In general, yes. Using taxis from a registered, credible provider in Lebanon is safe. You can further enhance your safety by following basic precautions.

Many locals use taxis regularly for commuting, airport transfers, sightseeing, errands, and intercity travel.

However, as with any country and transport option, risks are there, especially when using unregistered taxis or in isolated areas.

Pros of Using Taxis in Lebanon:

• Convenient for local community and intercity trips
• Available for every budget
• 24/7 taxis, especially app-based
• Ideal for travelers unfamiliar with Lebanese roads, traffic rules, and the local language

Potential Risks:

• Overcharging tourists, especially unregistered taxis
• Driver professionalism and safety issues, in some cases
• Use of unlicensed vehicles or fake plates

That said, there are also companies like CTaxi that pay special attention to customers’ safety through their technology-driven, transparent, and professional services backed by certified drivers, ensuring a more secure and comfortable experience.

Safety Tips for Using Taxis in Beirut, Zahle, Byblos and in Different Cities Across Lebanon

Whether you’re booking a taxi in Beirut, traveling to Zahle, or sightseeing in Byblos, following these essential safety tips can help ensure a safe and smooth taxi ride:

1. Use Registered Taxis Only

If safety is your top priority, always use a registered taxi with red license plates. If you’re looking for a private taxi, always book one from a verified ride-hailing app like CTaxi. Avoid unmarked vehicles.

2. Confirm the Fare Before the Trip

When booking a traditional taxi in Lebanon, always agree on the fare beforehand to avoid the need to negotiate later. Most app-based taxi services in Lebanon follow a clear fare structure to avoid surprises.

3. Opt for Reputable Services Like CTaxi

Unless you’re a local or are completely familiar with the region, a registered, app-based service like CTaxi is the safest way to explore Lebanon. With their pre-booked rides, verified drivers, live tracking, and transparent fare, you can ensure a safe journey.

4. Avoid Traveling to Isolated Areas Alone

Avoid booking a traditional or unmarked taxi when you’re alone, and especially when you’re in or traveling to an isolated region. Use a public place to hail a cab. For better safety, book through a registered provider to ensure driver information and tracking.

5. Keep Your Belongings Close

Always keep your things, especially previous items like your phone, wallet, and jewelry, on you when traveling in a taxi.

6. Share Your Ride Details

When using a taxi alone or at night, share your live location with a close friend or family member.

7. Check the Vehicle

Before entering a taxi booked via an app, ensure the car details and the driver match the information in your app. Write down the license plate and driver’s name.

8. Stay Alert! Call Help If Needed!

If something feels off—driver taking a different route or behaving oddly, call immediately for help or ask the driver to stop in a public place.

Why CTaxi Is a Safer Choice for Taxi Rides in Lebanon?

While Lebanon’s overall taxi system is quite reliable, CTaxi stands out for its superior focus on safety and professionalism.

Here’s why we are one of the safest taxi services in Lebanon:

• Verified & Police-checked Drivers
• Real-time Ride Tracking
• Transparent & Fair Pricing
• 24/7 In-app & WhatsApp Support
• Comprehensive Coverage Throughout Lebanon

Conclusion

To answer your question, yes, it is safe to use taxis in Lebanon, as long as you remain cautious, alert, and use registered providers.

Avoid unmarked taxis or ones without red license plates, especially if you’re alone. Agree on the fare beforehand. Use only a regulated taxi provider or app like CTaxi.