Libya
Subregion: Northern Africa
Libya is a country located in Northern Africa. The Capital City is Tripoli. The government is a Unitary provisional unity republic. The official language of the country is Arabic. The predominant religion is Islam. The healthcare system in Libya is both public and private. There are some small private hospitals in certain areas.
Safety:
Libya is a country located in North Africa that has faced a range of safety concerns in recent years. Libya has been facing political instability since the overthrow of former leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The country has been divided between two governments - the UN-recognized Government of National Accord (GNA) based in Tripoli and the Libyan National Army (LNA) based in the east of the country. Libya has also been facing a threat from various terrorist groups, including the Islamic State (IS) and al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM). These groups have been responsible for numerous attacks on security forces, civilians, and foreign nationals. Libya has seen an increase in violent crime in recent years, including carjacking, kidnapping, and armed robbery. Some areas of the country, particularly in the south, are known for their high crime rates. Libya is a major transit point for migrants seeking to reach Europe, and as a result, the country has become a hub for human trafficking. Migrants are often subjected to violence, extortion, and forced labor. Protests and demonstrations have been a common occurrence in Libya, particularly in the wake of the 2011 revolution. These demonstrations can turn violent, and foreigners are often advised to avoid areas where protests are taking place. When it comes to road conditions, many roads in Libya are poorly maintained and may have potholes, cracks, or other hazards. Additionally, some roads may be closed due to ongoing conflicts or other security concerns. It is important to note that driving standards and road safety regulations may not be as strict in Libya as they are in some other countries, and traffic accidents are not uncommon.
Cultural Customs:
Libya is a country with a rich cultural heritage and a diverse population. Libyans are known for their warm hospitality and generosity towards guests. It is common for them to invite guests into their homes for meals or tea. Family is very important in Libyan culture, and respect for elders and extended family members is highly valued. Families often live in close proximity and provide support for each other. Traditional Libyan dress for men consists of a long white robe called a jalabiya, while women typically wear a long dress or skirt and a headscarf. Libyan cuisine is diverse and includes dishes such as couscous, bazeen (a type of bread made from barley flour), and shorba (a vegetable soup). Dates and olives are also important parts of Libyan cuisine. The majority of Libyans are Sunni Muslims, and Islam plays an important role in Libyan culture. Religious practices, such as daily prayers and fasting during Ramadan, are widely observed. Traditional Libyan music is characterized by the use of the oud (a stringed instrument) and the darbuka (a type of drum). Folk dances such as the zajal and the hagallah are also popular. Libyan crafts such as weaving, pottery, and embroidery are highly valued, and traditional designs are often incorporated into clothing and household items.
Geography & Weather:
Libya has two different climates. The interior of the country’s climate is desert and the coast has a mediterranean climate.
In the city of Tripoli, which is on the coast of the country, the average temperature ranges from 55 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is January with a median temperature of 55 degrees F and August being the hottest month with a median temperature of 85 degrees F. The rainy season is from October - January but the rainfall is only about 13 inches annually. The sun shines all year except for the short period from November to January. The sea temperature is warm enough to swim from July - October.
In Al Bayda, which is in the mountains, the average temperature ranges from 50 to 74 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is January with a median temperature of 50 degrees F and August is the hottest month with a median temperature of 74 degrees F. The rainy season is from November - March in this area. During this time, snowfall can occur if it’s cold enough.
In Sabha, the desert area in the center of the country, the average temperature ranges from 55 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is January with a median temperature of 55 degrees F and June being the hottest month with a median temperature of 90 degrees F. There is no rainy season in this area. The sun shines here all year round.
Economy:
Libya's economy has been heavily reliant on its oil reserves, which have been the primary source of revenue for the country. However, the country has experienced significant economic instability since the 2011 overthrow of longtime dictator Muammar Gaddafi. The ongoing conflict between rival factions has severely affected the country's oil production, which has been a major source of revenue for the government. As a result, the economy has contracted, and the country has experienced high inflation, a shortage of basic goods, and a growing black market. In recent years, the United Nations and the international community have been working to support the Libyan government and help stabilize the country's economy. The country has also begun to diversify its economy, investing in non-oil sectors such as tourism and agriculture. Despite these efforts, however, the situation remains challenging, and the economy is likely to continue to be heavily impacted by political instability and the ongoing conflict.
Currency/Foreign Exchange Rate:
Libyan Dinar (LYD)
LYD 1.00 = USD .21
Country Stats:
Population (2020):
6,871,292
Median Age:
28.8 yrs
Life Expectancy:
73.44 yrs
Visa Requirements:
Needed for Entry for US Citizens? Yes
* US Embassy is currently not issuing tourist visas at this time *
Citizenship Requirements:
Dual citizenship - Yes
Naturalization - Libyan citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions: Person has resided in Libya for at least ten consecutive years, is of good morality, no physical or mental disabilities, have no criminal convictions, economically self sufficient, in the country legally and is under 50 years of age.
Residency Requirements:
A temporary residency visa is available for people looking to relocate into Libya as expats. Application process is in the link below. You can apply for a residency permit 30 days after you have been issued your residence visa.
Resources:
U.S. Embassy Tunis
North East Zone
Les Berges du Lac
1053 Tunis, Tunisia
Telephone:+(216) 71-107-000, press 0 and ask for the Libya Office consular officer.
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(216) 58 575 409
Fax: +(216) 71-964-360
Email: LibyaACS@state.gov
*There is currently no U.S. Embassy in Libya. Questions may be addressed to the Libya External Office located in Tunis*