Well-informed sources confirm that 90% of businesses in downtown Beirut are set to reopen. Dozens of shops are preparing to resume operations, while some global brands will make a partial return after their previous withdrawal due to the economic crisis. This revival is expected to stimulate commerce, create jobs, boost the economy and attract tourists and expatriates.
After years of closure, void and stagnation of market activity, Nejmeh Square in downtown Beirut was finally reopened to the public, along with the surrounding roads — especially those near the Parliament building and the Banks’ Street, adjacent to the Grand Serail. These areas had been sealed off with metal and concrete barriers, as well as barbed wire, since the October 17, 2019 uprising, which was marked by clashes between protesters and security forces guarding Parliament.
Following three years of stagnation, the heart of the capital still pulses with life — “albeit delayed.” Once engulfed in total inactivity, this area is now shedding the weight of crises and security turmoil, returning to its former vitality and reflecting the beautiful Lebanon we’ve longed for.
This move follows a decision by Parliament Police to reopen the roads surrounding Nejmeh Square, ensuring clear access for all.
Will Beirut Souks Regain Their Vibrancy?
Khaled Nazha, Vice President of the Syndicate of Restaurants, Cafés and Nightclubs Owners in Lebanon, shares with our sister company, Houna Loubnan: “After Beirut leading restaurants, nightclubs, hotels and shops faced massive closures amid series of crises, a new light is emerging in the heart of the city with the reopening of Nejmeh Square. This marks the revival and renewal Lebanon so urgently needs. A spark of hope is rising in downtown Beirut, an area long celebrated for its diverse restaurants offering global cuisines, alongside its cafés and shops. It has always been a popular destination for both local residents and tourists.”
Nazha predicts “a surge in investments with dozens of new restaurants opening to cater to all budgets.” He encourages Lebanese citizens to visit this revitalized spot of the capital, “which reflects the Lebanon we aspire to.”
He adds, “The reopening of the roads leading to Nejmeh Square will breathe new life into Beirut’s tourism sector, having a positive ripple effect on Lebanon’s economy and all commercial sectors.”
Nazha concludes by affirming that downtown Beirut is the heart of the capital, and restoring its souks and streets will rejuvenate the entire nation, inviting expatriates and Arab visitors to experience it firsthand.
Informed sources confirm that “90% of businesses and shops in downtown Beirut are set to reopen. “Business activity will gradually pick up in downtown Beirut, with around 100 new establishments — including retail stores, restaurants and cafés — set to open. These venues will cater to a wide range of social classes, offering a range of prices to ensure success and sustainability, with a particular emphasis on attracting the Lebanese diaspora and Arab visitors.”
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