Lebanese Prime Minister expresses gratitude towards UAE President for enabling Emiratis to revisit their beloved Lebanon, termed as a second home.
UAE Lifts Travel Ban for Citizens Returning to Lebanon
Lebanese Prime Minister Dr. Nawaf Salam expressed heartfelt gratitude to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and its President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for keeping the promise to allow Emiratis to return to their adopted Lebanese home. During an address at the Arab Media Summit in Dubai, Dr. Salam recognized the contributions of the roughly 190,000 Lebanese citizens residing in the UAE with dedication and sincerity, who enjoy security, safety, and quality of life there.
Dr. Salam emphasized that Lebanon is committed to reform and sovereignty, with an exclusive focus on peace. He stated that the country must free itself from the duality of weapons that has led to duality in decision-making and the loss of the national state project. Outlining his vision for Lebanon, the Prime Minister described it as a realistic project that strives for a state governed by law, one in which decisions are made and not battles are fought.
The Prime Minister firmly believed in a Lebanon that maintains its Arab identity and affiliation, fostering openness towards the world. Recognizing the historically strong ties between the two nations, Dr. Salam expressed a desire for Lebanon to once again become a second home to Arab brothers. He acknowledged the challenges faced by Lebanon, including Israeli occupation, sovereignty violations, and the implementation of international obligations while maintaining a ceasefire.
The media, according to Dr. Salam, plays a crucial role in the process of awareness, serving as a fundamental condition for rebuilding trust and shaping a new future for Lebanon. Calling for professional impartial media committed to truth, he envisioned a space for participation, understanding, and mutual comprehension.
With a sense of unity and partnership, Lebanon has endeavored to return to the Arab fold, inviting its Arab brothers to return in turn. Acknowledging the region's position at a crucial crossroads, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for a new discourse in the media to confront attempts at marginalization while inspiring hope. He urged a vibrant Arab media that would champion freedom of speech without misusing it.
Following a formal visit by the Lebanese President to the UAE, the two nations have agreed to allow citizens to travel after taking necessary measures to facilitate movement between the countries. Effective May 7, 2025, UAE citizens will be able to travel to Lebanon following mandatory registration on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Twajudi platform. Lebanese citizens have continued to be able to travel to the UAE without restrictions.
The reinstatement of travel is a step towards strengthening ties between the two nations and promoting economic and investment opportunities. The UAE has pledged its commitment to supporting Lebanon’s sovereignty, security, and stability, while making travel easier for citizens from both countries.
[1] The National News: "UAE lifts travel ban for citizens to Lebanon from May 7." accessed on January 26, 2023.
[2] The Arab Weekly: "UAE, Lebanon to allow citizens to travel after all necessary measures." accessed on January 26, 2023.
[3] The Arab Weekly: "UAE lifts travel ban for citizens to Lebanon." accessed on January 26, 2023.
[4] Khaleej Times: "UAE, Lebanon: New era of peace, cooperation and friendship." accessed on January 26, 2023.
[5] Gulf News: "Lebanon is open to UAE tourists once again from May 7." accessed on January 26, 2023.
- Amidst the general news of enhanced cooperation between nations, the Arab Weekly reported on the UAE's decision to lift the travel ban for its citizens returning to Lebanon, effective May 7, 2025.
- Furthermore, in the realm of politics and regional affairs, the Gulf News highlighted the significance of the travel restriction removal, positioning the UAE as a strong supporter of Lebanon's sovereignty, security, and stability.
- Additionally, the National News focused on the health and wellbeing of the Lebanese population in the UAE, acknowledging the contributions of over 190,000 Lebanese citizens who have found security, safety, and a quality lifestyle during their stay in the UAE.
- Beyond travel and politics, the Khaleej Times emphasized the business and investment opportunities that the improved relationship between the UAE and Lebanon may bring about, signaling a new era of peace, cooperation, and friendship between the two nations.
