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Al Habtoor Group Moves to Legal Action Over $1.7 Billion Lebanon Losses

The UAE conglomerate cites Lebanese banking restrictions that trapped its deposits, asserting treaty safeguards obligate compensation.

Overview

  • Al Habtoor Group said Monday it will pursue legal measures against Lebanese authorities and the central bank over an investment dispute.
  • The company reports losses exceeding $1.7 billion, blaming measures that blocked access to and transfers of lawfully deposited funds in Lebanese banks.
  • The group says it triggered a UAE–Lebanon bilateral treaty cooling-off process in January 2024 and will now seek remedies under international agreements, with no forum yet specified.
  • Its Lebanon portfolio spans hotels, retail, leisure and real estate previously valued near $1 billion, including Habtoor Land and a Beirut-area hotel.
  • Lebanese officials point to reform proposals sent to parliament, but Al Habtoor says engagement produced no effective remedies and states it remains open to lawful, constructive solutions.