Al Habtoor Group will exit Lebanon, citing prolonged instability, public defamation, and legal disputes amid unsustainable operating conditions.
DUBAI: Al Habtoor Group has announced the complete closure of its operations in Lebanon following a comprehensive internal review and in light of worsening political, legal, and institutional instability in the country. The decision, effective immediately, marks the end of the Group’s 25-year presence in Lebanon, which began with its first hotel investment in 2001.
In a formal statement issued on 28 January 2026, the Group cited hostile campaigns, public attacks, defamatory actions, and ongoing legal proceedings with the Lebanese Government as key reasons for its exit. These issues, it said, had collectively rendered continued operation unsustainable. Despite efforts to safeguard its workforce and maintain investments, Al Habtoor Group determined that conditions had deteriorated beyond recovery, leaving no viable path forward.
“For years, the Group has upheld its responsibilities in Lebanon, treating its commitments as a humanitarian and partnership-driven mission rather than one solely based on profit,” the statement read. “However, continued institutional failure and the absence of basic state protection have left us with no choice.”
The Group emphasised that the decision to terminate all local operations, including its hotels and properties, is a necessary legal step to preserve its global interests and halt further financial losses. It also confirmed the termination of its Lebanese workforce, citing the situation’s untenable nature.
Al Habtoor Group reiterated its commitment to pursuing its rights under international law and stated it would continue to take legal actions aligned with global frameworks and agreements. It affirmed that while the decision was difficult, it was unavoidable in the current climate.
