Choosing a Coworking Space in Beirut

Coworking spaces multiplied across Beirut, Jounieh and the south after 2019 as freelancers and remote workers sought reliable power and internet. The pretty ones photograph well; the good ones are the ones that don't trip when EDL cuts.

Six criteria to compare

1. Power redundancy. Ask about EDL + generator + UPS + solar/battery. The best spaces survive a full EDL outage without you noticing.
2. Internet. Two ISPs on separate fiber routes, with automatic failover. Test the speed on the day of your visit — not from their marketing page.
3. Meeting rooms. Included hours per plan, after-hours availability, video-call kit (4K camera, omni-directional mic).
4. Acoustic comfort. Sit in the open-plan area for 20 minutes during a busy hour before signing.
5. Address quality. A central business address (Achrafieh, Hamra, Mar Mikhael, Sin El Fil) helps for client perception and KYC paperwork.
6. Contract flexibility. Monthly notice, day passes, and the ability to switch plans matter for small teams.

What's usually not included

• Printing beyond a small quota.
• Storage lockers.
• Dedicated phone numbers and mail handling (beyond basic reception).

For freelancers

A monthly hot-desk plan is usually cheaper than a residential generator subscription plus mobile data — and you stop losing two hours a day to power switching at home.