Skip to main content

Economic meltdown hits Lebanese funeral industry

With the economy in tatters, many Lebanese are struggling to afford basic funeral services.
IBRAHIM CHALHOUB/AFP via Getty Images

The death of a relative has become a heavy financial burden for Lebanese citizens. According to UN estimates, more than 55% of Lebanon's population is now living below the poverty line.

The cost of funeral services in Lebanon varies depending on the religious community. The service fees are lower for Muslims than for Christians and Druze, who have to buy a coffin, funeral wreaths and clothes for the deceased, while Muslims are buried wrapped in shrouds.

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 per year.