Lebanon’s has enjoyed consistent tourism growth during the economic downturn, as evidenced by launch of additional flydubai flights during Eid Al Fitr. The lastest World Economic Outlook Report released by the International Monetary Fund forecasts a 3 per cent GDP growth in 2009 and four per cent GDP growth in 2010. The Lebanese government expects 6 per cent GDP growth this year.
The tourism industry in Lebanon will likely account for about 9.3 per cent of GDP and 9.6 per cent of local employment in 2009. About $7.78 billion of indirect revenues will be provided, creating about 439,600 jobs. This would be equivalent to about 28.1 per cent of total employment. The number of tourists visiting Lebanon surged dramatically by 56.8 per cent with 434,418 in the first four months of 2009 compared to the same period last year.
