Libya

By law you must carry your passport. Foreign nationals have been arrested for failing to provide the correct documentation when requested.

Libya is an Islamic country. Respect local traditions, laws and religious customs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.

Ramadan dates vary by year and country. During this time do not:

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
• play loud music or dance
• swear in public

Get more advice when you arrive from your hotel or business contacts.

You should also:

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
• be aware that fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the later afternoon and early evening
• be patient and show tolerance

It is illegal in Libya to make any attempt to convert Muslims to another religion.

It is illegal in Libya to drink alcohol or use drugs. Libyan authorities treat drug and alcohol offences seriously. You can be punished for use, possession and trafficking of drugs or alcohol.

There has been an increase in cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol around the world.

Even small amounts of methanol can kill. It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell. See Travel Aware Drink Spiking and Methanol Poisoning for information about how to reduce the risks.

Seek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show the signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.

There are often complex bureaucratic procedures needed to travel for work in Libya. Follow all relevant protocols and procedures if you intend to travel around Libya for business. You are likely to be at risk of intimidation, harassment and detention if you fail to comply with local customs.

You must get press accreditation from the relevant government authorities. This may reduce the risk of harassment, intimidation and detention by armed groups and Libya’s intelligence services. There is a real risk of hostility from those who object to media reporting. International and local journalists have previously been detained in Libya.

You must get permission before taking any photographs or interviewing at or near military facilities.

Consensual same-sex sexual activity is illegal for men and women in Libya, with penalties of up to five years imprisonment. 

Libyan society is intolerant of people of the same sex showing affection in public. Individuals perceived to be part of the LGBT+ community have experienced physical and psychological violence and harassment. There have also been arrests for people perceived as ‘promoting homosexuality’.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

In September 2023 Storm Daniel struck eastern Libya, causing severe flooding and significantly damaging critical infrastructure, including hospitals and telecommunications networks. Libya remains vulnerable to severe weather incidents, with flooding impacting cities, including Tripoli and Misrata in December 2024.