Welcome to Libya 😊

Quick Facts About Libya

Money and Finances

The currency used in Libya is the Libyan dinar, which is divided into 1000 dirhams. Coins come in denominations of 50, 100, and 250 dirhams, while banknotes come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 dinars.

ATM Network

ATMs are fairly common in the major cities of Libya, but may be scarce in more rural areas. It is recommended to always carry cash as a backup.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are not widely accepted in Libya, especially outside of major cities. Visa and Mastercard are more likely to be accepted than American Express.

Internet and Phones

In Libya, the average internet speed for uploads and downloads is quite slow, around 2 Mbps. There is also some government interference in internet use, such as restrictions on social media sites and censorship of online content.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

There are two main telco companies in Libya, Almadar and Libyana. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is relatively cheap, at around 10-20LYD per month. There may be some sim compatibility issues, so it's best to check with your provider before travelling.

Dialling to Libya

To call Libya from another country, you'll need to start with the country code +218. When dialling within Libya, there are different area codes depending on the city or region you are calling. For example, Tripoli has an area code of 21 and Benghazi has an area code of 61.

Transport Around Libya

Air Travel

Major airports in Libya include Tripoli International Airport and Benghazi Benina International Airport, among others.

Train Travel

Due to ongoing conflict and instability, inter-city train travel in Libya is currently unreliable and not recommended for tourists.

Metro / Local Trains

There are no metro systems in Libya.

Buses

Public buses in Libya are available, but again due to ongoing conflict and instability, travel by bus is not recommended for tourists.

Rideshare

Ridesharing companies such as Uber and Lyft are not available in Libya.

Driving by Car

Driving in Libya is possible but can be challenging due to poor road conditions, inconsistent traffic laws, and the prevalence of military checkpoints. The speed limit on highways is 100 km/h and Libya drives on the right-hand side of the road.

Local Customs

In Libya, tipping is not expected or common. It is customary to greet with a handshake, but in more conservative areas, some men may greet women by placing their hand over their heart instead. When speaking with strangers, it is important to initially maintain polite and formal language until a more casual relationship is established. In Libya, men and women generally address each other with titles such as 'Mr.' or 'Mrs.' followed by the surname.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

The health system in Libya is poorly developed, with limited medical resources and facilities. Private healthcare is available but can be expensive. Visitors to Libya should have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical expenses. The approximate cost for a visit to the doctor is around 200 LYD (15 USD).

COVID Situation

Libya reported its first case of COVID-19 in March 2020. The government has implemented measures such as curfews, travel restrictions, and border closures to control the spread of the virus. The number of cases in Libya is relatively low, with currently around 1,500 cases and 50 deaths reported.

Common Health Risks

Libya has a high risk of vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever, especially during the summer months. Food and waterborne diseases are also common, so visitors should take precautions such as drinking bottled water and avoiding undercooked or raw food. In addition, there is a risk of hepatitis A, typhoid fever, and tuberculosis in Libya.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol is strictly prohibited in Libya due to Islamic laws. Possession and consumption of alcohol can lead to severe punishment such as imprisonment or public flogging.

Recreational Drugs

Drug use and possession are considered serious offenses in Libya and can result in imprisonment for a number of years.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Pre-marital relationships are not accepted in Libya and can lead to punishment. Cohabitation is also not allowed and can result in imprisonment.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Homosexuality is illegal in Libya and can be punished with imprisonment or even death penalty under the country's penal code.

Firearms / Guns

Only authorized individuals such as law enforcement officers and military personnel are allowed to carry firearms in Libya. Possession of firearms without proper permission is illegal and can result in serious consequences.