Report and photos by Florian Guillemin.

If we were to measure economic dynamism by the number of property projects, then it's clear, Beirut is a destination that counts on the business map of the world. This coastal capital, which is constantly being rebuilt, is a huge undertaking. Many are amused by it, others are tired of it or are moved by it. Some are even inspired by it, such as the photographer Randa Mirza who, in his series of "Beirutopiaplays on the contrast between the sometimes chaotic reality of everyday life and an 'ideal' Beirut plastered on the fences surrounding the building sites.

A number of projects have come to fruition, however, and the metamorphosis of "Downtownthe business district, is already quite impressive. Much of the city centre has been elegantly refurbished, as have these souks reinvented which are less reminiscent of the oriental bazaar than the shopping aisles of contemporary malls. This thirst for modernity accompanies the renaissance of the Lebanese capital.

Beirut is now positioned as a leading business destination in the world. Middle East. Although this region is often reduced to its geopolitical dimension, many companies are taking a very pragmatic look at it. Syria and will have to be rebuilt...

The Lebanese capital, which also bears the scars of an internal conflict, is transforming the worst-affected areas into new business hubs. This is the case of the Beirut Digital Districta digital district in the making, located just south of Downtown. The aim is to stimulate local entrepreneurship, retain the brightest minds and give them a foothold with modern infrastructure. The initiative sounds like a pledge of ambition to the Lebanese diaspora - one of the largest in the world - to contribute to this wonderful dynamic. After all, this is perhaps the country's greatest asset: its human resources.

GETTING THERE

Since last summer, Aigle Azur connects Paris Orly and Beirut airports all year round. The French airline operates four flights a week in Airbus A320 and A319with Business and Economy classes. Departures from Paris take place in the evening, every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, for a 4h20 flight.
The Air France-KLM group and its partners are also present on this route. The French carrier operates a daily flight from Paris-CDG, as does MEA, the Lebanese carrier and member of the SkyTeam alliance. The low-cost subsidiary Transavia offers three flights a week.
Although Beirut airport is close to the city centre, checks are meticulous. So make sure you arrive at the airport at least three hours early.