8 Lebanese Stereotypes That Are Actually Correct

Please note that stereotypes, by definition, are widely known and oversimplified ideas or images, and not facts. Lebanese people, like all nationalities – have a lot of stereotypes associated with the name. Though these might not be factual, some of them do carry quite a bit of truth:

1. Lebanese hospitality

It’s true what they say, Lebanese people love to have friends over. They’re very generous, even when it exceeds their means. I’ve had lavish 7-course-feasts at houses of families who are barely making ends meet, now that’s what I call having a rich character. Strike up a conversation with anyone around the country, and they’re sure to ask you to share a cup of coffee with them or join them for a meal. The words Lebanese and hospitality truly do go hand in hand.

2. Racism

But on the other hand, racism is a prevalent issue here. Other than the obvious portrayals of racism we see caught on videos and social media platforms, some Lebanese people tend to have underlying tones of racism, xenophobia, and sectarianism in their speech, mannerisms, and day-to-day meetings – and it’s the most disheartening when it comes from someone close like a parent, sibling, or friend.

3. Sociable people

Lebanese people like to strike up a conversation with everyone and everyone. If you’re in their space, they’d like to know more about you. I don’t know if it’s nosiness or friendliness, but we like to talk and get to know strangers until they don’t feel like strangers anymore.

4. Full of life

Always down to party, not only at nightclubs, but even at those late night argileh a3det on the balcony. Lebanese people like being in groups, having fun, and making the most of time spent with others.

5. Food aficionados

We love to eat, and we’re pretty good at it, too. We have an international hub of worldly cuisines in the small city of Beirut. Sometimes even on the same small street you’ll find fine dining restaurants at affordable prices offering cuisines from all over the world. Not to mention, of course, our native cuisine that has become famous around the world for its aromatic ingredients, fresh flavors, changing forms, and kicks of spices.

6. Family-centered

The bond I’ve seen between families here is nothing like I’ve seen anywhere around the world. We place great importance on maintaining a loving relationship with family members, even extended kin. That’s something you do not see much of around the world.

7. Hustlers

This could go both ways: extremely smart and hard-working people that work day and night, or sleazy businessman stealing from simple-minded Gulf billionaires. Lebanese people take the term ‘street smart’ to a whole new level.

8. Lebanese people care a lot about what other people think of them

Whether it’s their appearance or their views on raising kids, politics, or religion, Lebanese people put in effort to be seen by everyone else in the best possible manner. That’s why the word “3eib” is thrown around so much:
– “3eib nerja3 m2akhar barke el jiran shefuna w fakarouna faltanin“
– “3eib elbos zet el jacket barke fakaro ma 3ande ghayra
– “3eib, 3eib, 3eib“.