Cremation and ashes transport

Cremation in Lebanon and bringing ashes home

For some families, arranging cremation locally and carrying ashes home is the right choice, and it can be quicker than full repatriation. This page sets out what Lebanon requires, and what to check before you decide.

Send an enquiry Full repatriation guide for Lebanon

Cremation in Lebanon

Can you cremate someone in Lebanon?

Cremation arrangements in Lebanon depend on local facilities and on whether an investigation is open. Contact us and we will confirm the current position before you make any decision.

Weighing cremation abroad against bringing your loved one home intact? How families decide between the two.

Who must release the body

Lebanese University, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Forensic Medicine Department, Beirut

Treaty position

Not a signatory to the Strasbourg Agreement on the Transfer of Corpses

Airline guidance

Can you carry ashes on the flight home?

Departure airports: BEY (Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport)

Carriers serving the UK: Middle East Airlines (MEA); Air France (via Paris CDG); Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul)

Airline rules that apply on any route.

What affects the cost from Lebanon

We do not publish a figure, because it turns on the specifics of the case. For Lebanon the things that move it are:

Distance from where the death happened to the nearest crematorium
Whether Lebanese University, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Forensic Medicine Department, Beirut has to release the case first
Whether you carry the ashes yourself or need them shipped

Considering full repatriation instead?

Some families decide they want their loved one brought home intact. The full Lebanon guide sets out that process.

Full repatriation guide for Lebanon

First steps guide

What to do if someone dies in Lebanon

The step-by-step first response guide covers the first 24 hours in Lebanon.

Official lists for Lebanon

Published by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office for British nationals. We are not connected to the firms listed.

Funeral directors, for arranging local care and preparation

Sources: FCDO: death abroad · FCDO travel advice · Repatriation from Lebanon

Talk to us about cremation in Lebanon

We deal with Lebanese University, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Forensic Medicine Department, Beirut and the local funeral directors directly. Tell us what has happened and we will take it from there.