Beirut Souks revived with 62 shops now open, more expected in 2025

BEIRUT — Adib al-Naqib, director general of Beirut Souks, said in an interview with Leb Economy that 62 stores are currently operational in the downtown Beirut shopping center, with seven having opened in December, just days after the cease-fire between Israel and Hezbollah. He added that six more are expected to open in January.

The total number of open shops represents nearly half of the 140 initially planned by the end of 2024, before the two-month conflict between the two sides began, with localized clashes starting on Oct. 8, 2023. The mall can accommodate about 200 stores, according to figures shared since its opening in 2009. “Between 30 and 35 additional stores are expected to open during the first quarter of 2025,” Naqib added.

Although the war slowed progress, Naqib emphasized that Beirut Souks continues to attract investors and retailers, with a 75 percent shop occupancy rate, even though not all stores are yet operational.

“The revival of life in downtown Beirut is both symbolic and essential,” he said. “Many people are coming to the capital to see Christmas decorations, shop for the holidays, and visit the Christmas market. It’s a testament to Beirut’s resilience and its determination to revitalize the city center,” he added enthusiastically.

The director also noted that the mall’s administration is taking a different approach to end-of-year celebrations this year, given the country’s difficult circumstances. “Instead of traditional New Year’s festivities, Beirut Souks has opted for a solidarity-driven approach. This includes donating over 1,000 winter garments and 400 heaters to displaced families, as well as supporting the Lebanese Civil Defense by upgrading essential equipment,” he explained.

Located just a few hundred meters from Parliament and the Grand Serail, and not far from the Beirut port, Beirut Souks’ activity has been severely impacted by events in Lebanon since the start of the protests on Oct. 17, 2019, as well as the economic and financial crisis that began during the same period. The mall also suffered significant damage during the Aug. 4, 2020, explosion, which destroyed the port and much of the capital.