Casino du Liban | Jounieh

The Casino du Liban is the sole legal gambling establishment in Lebanon, located on a cliff overlooking the Bay of Jounieh in Maameltein. It is a massive entertainment complex that includes gaming halls, theaters, and luxury dining venues, serving as a landmark of the country's mid-century "Golden Age."

Visual Characteristics

The complex features a grand, modernist architectural style with a white and pale stone exterior and expansive glass windows. The interior is divided into five distinct areas: the International Casino, the Salle des Ambassadeurs, the Cercle d'Or, the Mediterranean Room, and the Theater. Design elements include plush red carpeting, massive crystal chandeliers, marble flooring, and wood-paneled gaming rooms.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is situated on the coastal highway in Maameltein, approximately 22km north of Beirut and 5km north of Jounieh. It is accessed via a private entrance road leading to an elevated plateau. Extensive valet parking and a multi-level parking structure are available. Public transport is available via northbound buses and "Service" taxis on the main Tripoli-Beirut highway, followed by a short uphill walk or taxi ride.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The casino was inaugurated in 1959 and quickly became a global destination for European and Arab elites. It was designed to compete with the luxury gaming houses of the French Riviera. During the Lebanese Civil War, the casino closed and suffered damage but was fully reconstructed and reopened in 1996. The site is positioned on a limestone promontory characterized by Mediterranean pine trees and steep cliffs descending to the sea.

Key Highlights & Activities

The facility offers a range of gaming options, including over 600 slot machines and 60 gaming tables for blackjack, roulette, and poker. The Salle des Ambassadeurs hosts world-class theatrical productions, ballets, and musical performances. Dining at the complex's five restaurants, which offer French and Lebanese cuisine, is a primary activity for non-gamers.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The venue is a high-security facility with 24-hour surveillance and 5G cellular coverage. Clean public restrooms, automated teller machines (ATMs), and a currency exchange office are located within the gaming area. A strict dress code is enforced in the private gaming circles (Cercle d'Or), and entry is restricted to individuals aged 21 and older with a valid passport or national ID.

Best Time to Visit

The casino is most active during the late evening and night hours, typically from 20:00 to 04:00. The best time for photography of the exterior is at night when the building is fully illuminated. The theater and restaurants are most popular during the weekend (Friday and Saturday nights). The slot machine halls are open 24/7.

Facts & Legends

The casino famously hosted the Miss Universe pageant in 1971 and was a frequent stop for celebrities such as Brigitte Bardot and Omar Sharif. A unique historical tip for visitors is the "La Martingale" restaurant terrace, which offers the most famous panoramic view of the Jounieh coastline, often cited as one of the best viewpoints in the northern Lebanon province.

Nearby Landmarks

Telepherique Station (4.5km South)

Our Lady of Lebanon (Harissa) (4.5km Southeast)

Old Souk of Jounieh (5.0km South)

Byblos (Jbeil) (12km North)

Jeita Grotto (11km Southeast)