Benghazi, Libya 🇱🇾
#182
32.120016, 20.081217
Nomad Score:
38%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Benghazi, located in the northeastern part of Libya, is the second-largest city in the country. |
| 👥 Population | Estimated population of around 650,000. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speed of approximately 15-20 Mbps. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | Local currency is Libyan Dinar (LYD); 1 USD ≈ 4.50 LYD. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Tap water is generally safe to drink but it's recommended to use bottled water due to contamination risks. |
| 🔌 Power | Electricity is typically 220V, 50Hz, with Type L sockets commonly used. |
| 📶 SIM Card | The major mobile providers are Libyana and Al-Madar. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | International cards like Visa and MasterCard are accepted at some banks and establishments, but cash is preferred. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Various options available, including hostels, hotels, and short-term apartments through local agencies. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Limited use of cards; cash is widely used. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local real estate sites offer short-term rentals. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Budget hostels and guesthouses like 'The Blue Marina Hotel' provide affordable stays. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Co-working spaces are limited, but local cafes often accommodate remote work. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Al-Ashraf Cafe is preferred for its WiFi and quiet environment. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Occasional meetups organized through social media platforms; many rely on personal connections. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Expats often meet informally; Facebook groups can be useful for announcements. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Taxi services can be arranged via phone; ride-hailing apps are not widely available. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Public bike-sharing services are not operational; renting vehicles is common. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Mediterranean beaches like Praia Martillo are popular, approximately 20 minutes from the city center. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Libyan Airlines operates regional connections. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Libyan Airlines offers limited international flights. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Main highways connect to nearby cities and regions, but road conditions may vary. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Benghazi has a central bus station for intercity travel; rail service is currently limited. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Public transport options are limited; bus fares are generally low. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Buses and private taxis available for intercity travel. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Al-Jala Hospital is one of the prominent healthcare facilities. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Limited yoga studios; community classes may be available sporadically. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Popular local gyms include 'Body Fit Gym.' |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Laundromats are limited; ask locals for nearby options. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Local delivery options are limited; some restaurants offer phone delivery services. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try 'Couscous Bil Aloo,' a traditional Libyan dish. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Limited vegan options are available; local markets offer fresh produce. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Al-Farooq Sweets is popular for traditional Libyan sweets. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Markets such as the Bazaar in the old city offer budget-friendly shopping. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Local sites for shopping are limited; international sites may be accessible. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Some grocery stores might offer delivery; ask locals for specific services. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Nightlife is subdued; some cafes and restaurants have evening openings. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Alcohol is restricted; local beverages include mint tea and fresh juices. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Very few establishments serve alcohol due to local laws. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Street vendors offer traditional snacks, typically around the markets. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Some restaurants serve Middle Eastern and Mediterranean food. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | The Italian Historical City Center and Benghazi's waterfront are noteworthy. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The National Museum of Benghazi showcases local history. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Site of ancient Cyrene, a short drive from the city, is historically significant. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | The Sidi Abdul Wahab Mosque is a major religious site. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Cultural festivals take place, but schedules can be variable. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The Old City offers a glimpse into Benghazi's history. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Cultural performances are often held in public squares or community centers. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Souks such as Souk El-Hamidiya serve as vibrant markets for locals. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Traditional Libyan music can be found during festivals. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Some murals and local art can be seen in public spaces but are limited. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Occasional classes may be arranged through local culinary schools. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Art galleries are few; a visit to the National Museum may include local art. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Historic architecture can be observed in the Old City. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Benghazi has a rich maritime and trade history evidenced in architecture. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Beautiful beaches along the Mediterranean are easily accessible. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Wadi Al-Hayat is a notable natural reserve nearby. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Beach promenades offer scenic walking and cycling paths. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Coastal cliffs provide stunning views of the Mediterranean. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Nearby wetlands attract various bird species. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Certain beach areas allow bonfires; check local regulations. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Local courier companies operate but international services may be limited. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Electronics repair shops can be found in the city center. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Community centers may have table tennis facilities. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Local language centers occasionally offer Arabic classes for expats. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | The Benghazi Library has study spaces; confirm current access policies. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Local community centers in neighborhoods host various activities. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Few gaming lounges are available; gaming at home is common. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | Gambling is largely illegal in Libya. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. LYD 1,500 per m² (example: 40 m² = LYD 60,000). |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. LYD 1,000 per m² (example: 40 m² = LYD 40,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. LYD 2,500 per m² (example: 60 m² = LYD 150,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. LYD 1,800 per m² (example: 60 m² = LYD 108,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. LYD 2,200 per m² (example: 80 m² = LYD 176,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. LYD 1,600 per m² (example: 80 m² = LYD 128,000). |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | Standard corporate tax rate is 20%. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | Dividend withholding tax rate is 5%. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Residents are taxed on income earned within Libya. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | Maximum personal income tax rate is 20%. |
| 🧾 VAT | Value Added Tax is set at 5%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, there are basic rules in place. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual property tax is based on property value at a low rate. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Tax applied during property purchases is approximately 5%. |