Minister Faiz Rassamni Inaugurates Renovated VIP Lounge at Beirut Airport

Faiz Rassamni, the Minister of Public Works and Transport, officially opened the refurbished VIP lounge at Rafic Hariri International Airport in Beirut. The renovation was fully funded and executed by Middle East Airlines. The ceremony was attended by Interior and Municipalities Minister Brigadier General Ahmad Al-Hajjar, National Defense Minister Major General Michel Mounsa, Tourism Minister Laura Al-Khazen, Chairman of the Public Works and Transport Committee MP Saji Atiyeh, Chairman and General Manager of Middle East Airlines Mohammad Al-Hout, Airport Director Engineer Ibrahim Abu Alawi, members of the General Civil Aviation Authority, security agency leaders at the airport, representatives from airlines, tourism and economic sectors, as well as various official and administrative figures.

The event began with the national anthem, followed by a welcoming speech by Danielle Al-Atrash. Minister Rassamni then unveiled the commemorative plaque and cut the ribbon to inaugurate the lounge, subsequently touring the new facility with attendees.

Development Plans and Security Priorities

In his address, Minister Rassamni described the VIP lounge opening as a new milestone within a comprehensive plan to develop Rafic Hariri International Airport, following the departure hall’s inauguration about two months earlier. He noted the ministry’s intention to open a new facility every three months.

He emphasized that enhancing the security and safety of travelers has been the top priority since assuming his duties, stating, “There is no airport without security and safety.” He expressed gratitude to the Interior and Defense Ministers and the leadership of the airport security apparatus and other security agencies for their efforts in safeguarding this vital facility.

Rassamni added that the airport is more than just a transportation hub; it serves as Lebanon’s primary gateway and must reflect the country’s image, culture, and history to visitors. He confirmed that the development plan is beginning to yield visible results.

Details of the Renovated VIP Lounge

The minister explained that the new VIP lounge covers approximately 1,100 square meters and accommodates around 83 people. It features a fully equipped kitchen and modern installations that meet the highest standards. He commended engineer Joe Farah for supervising the project’s execution.

Rassamni also indicated that development efforts will continue, including improvements to restrooms, upgrades to inspection devices and scanners, runway rehabilitation, and significant investments in airport infrastructure.

He announced the ministry’s plan to open a Fast Track lane within the next three months, offering travelers additional options and reducing congestion in traditional departure halls.

He confirmed that the Ministry of Tourism will contribute to highlighting Lebanon’s cultural image throughout the airport facilities, while the private sector will remain a key partner in project implementation despite financial and administrative challenges.

Rassamni revealed that passenger traffic is regaining momentum, with over 12,000 travelers arriving daily, recovering from a previous decline caused by security and exceptional circumstances.

Middle East Airlines’ Role and Future Projects

Mohammad Al-Hout, Chairman and General Manager of Middle East Airlines, expressed his pleasure at the project’s inauguration. He noted that Minister Rassamni has closely monitored all airport-related details since taking office, from security measures and cleanliness to enhancing the passenger experience.

Al-Hout highlighted that the minister initiated a series of improvements despite limited financial resources, praising his promptness and precision in project execution.

Recalling the airspace closure during heightened tensions between the United States and Iran, Al-Hout revealed that he was surprised to see Minister Rassamni personally assisting stranded travelers at the airline’s sales office by helping with reservations.

He announced Middle East Airlines’ readiness to participate in the expansion project of Rafic Hariri International Airport, estimated to cost approximately $500 million. He affirmed that the project has the backing of the Governor of the Central Bank, Karim Said, and Prime Minister Dr. Nawaf Salam, expressing hope for its completion during President Joseph Aoun’s term.

Al-Hout also thanked Minister Rassamni for completing the formation of the General Civil Aviation Authority, establishing the Beirut International Airport Institution, and launching the Qleiat Airport project. He noted that the latter adds to Lebanese air transport capacity without competing with Beirut Airport.

He praised the appointment of Captain Mohammad Aziz as head of the General Civil Aviation Authority.

Security and Economic Significance

Interior and Municipalities Minister Ahmad Al-Hajjar described security as the foundation for progress. He stated that opening the VIP lounge represents a new step in developing public facilities despite the country’s difficult conditions. He stressed that Rafic Hariri International Airport is Lebanon’s gateway to the world and affirmed the readiness of security agencies to maintain safety and stability at the airport and across Lebanon.

Al-Hajjar welcomed Saudi Arabia’s decision to reopen imports of Lebanese products, noting the airport’s role as a main export outlet. He also praised the United Arab Emirates’ decision to allow its citizens to visit Lebanon, considering these measures as signs of renewed confidence in Lebanon that will stimulate tourism and economic activity.

Comprehensive Renovation Since 1998

This project represents the first full-scale renovation of the VIP lounge since Rafic Hariri International Airport opened in April 1998.

The renovation involved a complete redesign of the lounge, which previously consisted of three small rooms, a corridor, and back offices. It was transformed into three spacious reception halls, including two non-smoking rooms and one smoking room. The number of check-in counters increased from two to three, and the ceiling height was raised by approximately 70 centimeters, providing greater spaciousness and smoother passenger flow.

The upgrade also included constructing a fully equipped kitchen, a service area, and a new reception desk. The entire electromechanical infrastructure was replaced, along with the air conditioning, ventilation, lighting systems, baggage handling system (BHS), and check-in system. All sanitary facilities were refurbished using top-tier equipment and materials.

Rehabilitation extended to the offices of General Security, Customs, and the Internal Security Forces, as well as arrival and departure corridors and security checkpoints. These enhancements improve operational efficiency and elevate service quality. The renovated lounge can now accommodate approximately 80 guests simultaneously, adhering to the latest international airport standards.