Tourism Minister Lahoud highlights diaspora’s vital role in Lebanon’s tourism recovery
Tourism Minister Laura Lahoud underscored the Lebanese diaspora’s pivotal role in sustaining tourism amid security instability, economic fragility and regional tensions.
Speaking at a Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK) conference titled Dynamics of the Lebanese Diaspora, Lahoud stressed that emotional attachment alone could no longer guarantee continued visits, particularly among second- and third-generation expatriates.
She called for diversifying tourism beyond the summer season, promoting cultural, religious, medical, culinary and nature-based experiences.
Lahoud highlighted the ministry’s digital transformation, including an online tourism licensing platform, and plans to establish an integrated data system to support evidence-based policymaking and investment.
She emphasized that political and security stability, state sovereignty and exclusive state authority over decisions of war and peace were essential to restoring international confidence.
Lahoud concluded that Lebanon must offer expatriates a compelling, high-quality tourism experience that encourages lasting engagement with their homeland.
