Lebanon and Construction After Wars: The Role of Companies and the Future of Reconstruction Post-2024

Lebanon’s history has been punctuated by a series of devastating wars, including the Civil War (1975–1990), the 2006 war with Israel, and the Beirut Port explosion in 2020. Now, in 2024, Lebanon faces yet another conflict that has left vast portions of its infrastructure and economy in disarray. With major parts of the country once again in ruins, the question of reconstruction looms large. Who will rebuild Lebanon this time, and what role will companies, particularly those from the Middle East like Saudi Arabia, play in shaping Lebanon’s post-war future?

2024 Conflict: The Latest Devastation

The 2024 war in Lebanon, sparked by escalating regional tensions, has led to severe destruction, particularly in the capital Beirut and southern Lebanon. Entire neighborhoods lie flattened, public utilities have collapsed, and essential infrastructure—roads, bridges, power plants, hospitals—has suffered extensive damage.

This conflict arrives at a challenging time for Lebanon, already grappling with an economic crisis, a devalued currency, high unemployment, and an unstable banking sector following the 2019 financial collapse. As in previous conflicts, the country’s recovery will depend on the collaborative efforts of the Lebanese government, regional allies, international actors, and construction firms.

Who Will Rebuild Lebanon After the 2024 War?

1. Regional and International Governments

As Lebanon’s economic collapse leaves its government with few resources for reconstruction, the involvement of regional and international governments will be critical.

• Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia has long-standing cultural and economic ties with Lebanon and has shown interest in aiding Lebanon’s stability. With financial leverage and a strategic interest in countering Iranian influence in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia may extend aid and invest in Lebanon’s reconstruction through direct government funding, as well as through the involvement of prominent Saudi construction and energy firms. Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) could play a role in long-term investment in sectors such as telecommunications, energy, and infrastructure.
• Qatar and Gulf States: Qatar has previously been a key player in Lebanon’s recovery efforts, especially after the 2006 war. Given Qatar’s ongoing investments in Lebanon and its diplomatic ties, it is expected to contribute funding for the reconstruction of heavily impacted areas, particularly in southern Lebanon. The UAE and Kuwait may also offer support, although their involvement could be tied to political reforms within Lebanon.
• Iran: Iran, with its influence over Hizbollah, is expected to play a significant role in reconstruction, particularly in southern Lebanon. Iran-backed groups like Hizbollah’s Jihad al-Binaa are likely to manage local rebuilding projects, especially in housing, schools, and other infrastructure in Hizbollah-controlled areas.
• France and the European Union: Given its historical ties to Lebanon, France, along with the EU, is likely to contribute substantial funds for reconstruction. French companies like VINCI and Bouygues could play prominent roles in rebuilding transportation infrastructure, public utilities, and cultural heritage sites in Beirut, extending the support France has already shown in the wake of the 2020 Beirut Port explosion.

2. Role of Local and International Companies

In addition to government aid, local and international companies will be instrumental in Lebanon’s reconstruction.

• Solidere: Solidere is expected to lead redevelopment in Beirut’s Central District. Despite past criticisms, its experience in urban planning and real estate positions it well to drive the revitalization of Beirut’s commercial and residential hubs. Solidere’s resources and familiarity with Beirut’s regulatory environment make it a logical choice for major redevelopment efforts.
• Dar Al-Handasah: This Beirut-based engineering and consultancy firm has extensive experience with large infrastructure projects in Lebanon and the broader Middle East. With a global reputation and presence, Dar Al-Handasah is likely to play a key role in designing and supervising the restoration of critical infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and utilities, potentially with backing from international donors.
• Erga Group: With over 40 years in architecture and engineering, Erga Group has been instrumental in Lebanon’s development and will likely support residential and commercial reconstruction projects. Their experience with local building codes and urban development regulations ensures timely and compliant rebuilding.
• Khatib & Alami: Renowned for their engineering and architectural services across the Middle East, Khatib & Alami are experienced in infrastructure and urban planning. Their expertise will be invaluable in large-scale projects like roadways, power systems, and water infrastructure.
• Orascom Construction: The Egyptian construction firm Orascom, which has previously been involved in Lebanon’s post-conflict rebuilding, may contribute to large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly in the energy and transportation sectors. Given its expertise in power generation, Orascom could help rebuild Lebanon’s severely damaged power grid.

3. Chinese and Russian Companies: Expanding Influence in Lebanon

China and Russia have increased their presence in the Middle East in recent years, and their involvement in Lebanon’s reconstruction could expand as a result.

• Chinese State-Owned Construction Firms: As part of the Belt and Road Initiative, Chinese firms like the China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC) and PowerChina may bid on major infrastructure projects in Lebanon. With experience in large-scale construction and vast financial resources, Chinese companies could play a substantial role in building energy infrastructure, ports, and other critical facilities.
• Russian Construction and Energy Companies: With Russia’s presence in Syria, the Kremlin has shown interest in extending its influence to Lebanon. Russian companies like Stroytransgaz, which are active in Syria’s reconstruction, may be involved in Lebanon as well, especially in rebuilding oil, gas, and military infrastructure.

Local and International Building Materials Suppliers

Suppliers of building materials will be critical to Lebanon’s post-2024 recovery.

Local Suppliers

• Holcim Lebanon (formerly Sibline Cement): A leading provider of cement, Holcim will be essential for concrete needs in rebuilding homes, commercial buildings, and infrastructure. Their commitment to sustainable practices may also align with eco-friendly reconstruction goals in Beirut and other urban areas.
• CCtechnique: Known for energy-efficient building solutions, CCtechnique is expected to be a primary provider of materials like waterproofing and insulation. Their sustainable and locally produced materials will reduce dependency on imports, cutting costs and transportation times.
• Sehnaoui Plant Group (SPG): SPG, a major supplier of construction equipment and concrete, can support accelerated rebuilding efforts by providing concrete mixers and other essential machinery.
• Ready Mix Beton (RMB): Known for their high-quality concrete, RMB will be a key supplier for the country’s large infrastructure projects.

International Suppliers

• Saint-Gobain: This French multinational offers a range of construction materials, including insulation, drywall, roofing, and waterproofing solutions. Given Lebanon’s energy crisis, Saint-Gobain’s sustainable insulation products could significantly enhance energy efficiency, benefiting both residential and commercial structures.
• LafargeHolcim: Another major player, LafargeHolcim can provide concrete, aggregates, and ready-mix concrete essential for infrastructure projects. Their focus on sustainable construction aligns with Lebanon’s growing interest in green building practices.
• Carlisle SynTec Systems and BASF Construction Chemicals: Providers of roofing and waterproofing solutions, Carlisle SynTec and BASF will be essential for long-lasting, resilient building solutions, particularly in Beirut’s coastal areas where buildings are exposed to humidity and saltwater.

Challenges Facing Lebanon’s Reconstruction After the 2024 War

Rebuilding Lebanon will not be without significant challenges:

• Political Instability: Lebanon’s sectarian political system complicates governance, and reconstruction efforts will need careful oversight to prevent funds from being monopolized by specific factions or parties.
• Economic Collapse: The country’s economic situation, worsened since the 2019 crisis, will necessitate foreign assistance, as domestic resources are insufficient for large-scale rebuilding.
• Corruption and Transparency Issues: Mismanagement has plagued past reconstruction efforts. For effective rebuilding, transparency in procurement and allocation will be essential. Donors may demand stricter oversight to ensure funds reach intended projects.
• Security Risks: The potential for renewed conflict poses a challenge to companies operating in Lebanon. As long as regional tensions persist, maintaining a stable environment for reconstruction efforts will be difficult.

Conclusion: A Collaborative Effort for Lebanon’s Future

The 2024 conflict has once again devastated Lebanon, but history has shown the resilience of its people and the capacity to rebuild. A concerted effort involving regional governments, international donors, and both local and multinational companies will be essential in shaping Lebanon’s post-war landscape. Companies like Dar Al-Handasah, Khatib & Alami and Erga are likely to spearhead domestic efforts, while regional players such as Saudi Arabia, Europe, USA, Qatar, China, and Russia will have substantial roles in reconstruction, each bringing unique expertise and resources to the table.

For Lebanon to truly recover, however, reconstruction must extend beyond physical infrastructure to address structural reforms. Political and economic changes are needed to ensure that the rebuilding process benefits all Lebanese citizens, fostering a stable and inclusive future for generations to come.