How may a western man or woman dress?

Greater emphasis is placed on the need to dress and behave modestly however the dress code will vary depending on which part of Libya you are travelling to.  In the city of Tripoli there is great freedom in what westerners are able to wear. For men, t-shirts and below the knee shorts are acceptable. It is appropriate for women to wear full length or 3/4 length trousers, skirts below the knee and short or long sleeved t-shirts. Sleeveless tops are frowned upon, as are revealing clothes.  Suitable clothing for westerners is readily available in Tripoli, however there is less selection than you may be used to.  There is no need for western women to cover their heads.  Western style bathing costumes can even be worn at expatriate beaches or at secluded beaches found around the coast.

Outside of the city, in neighbouring regions, where expats are smaller in number, the dress code is certainly more modest. Long sleeved t-shirts for women would be advised, as would full length or 3/4 length skirts or trousers.

It  is important to remember to dress in a way that is respectful to the Muslim faith. It is recommended for women that you carry a pashmina or light shawl to allow you to cover up if the situation so requires.  When meeting in the homes of other expats, or at expatriate events there is less of a need to be covered.

For what reasons do people not enjoy their experience as an expat in Libya?

Alcohol is forbidden.  That’s the big one.  If you come to Libya knowing that you may not be able to drink at all, then you will be pleasantly surprised on the occasions where you are able to drink on diplomatic soil.  Restaurants serve non alcoholic beer and soft drinks.

Driving.  The majority of expats living in Tripoli will drive themselves, but the standard of driving is often poor and it is wise to take a defensive driving course once in Libya. 

Attention from others.  Some expats find it difficult that they are the centre of attention wherever they go, particularly females.  It is important to know that no matter how conservatively you dress, unless your head is covered you will attract attention from males.  You will also receive frequent invitations to engage in conversation from Libyans who are eager to practise their English.

Will my appliances work in Libya?  What sort of electricity sockets are used?

Electricity in Libya is 220V/50Hz.  Round 2 pin plug sockets are used (as are used in Europe).  If you are travelling from the States, you will need to pack a sufficient amount of 110V step-up transformers.

If you are using equipment which is particularly expensive it is best to pack some voltage regulators as voltage can vary and equipment has been known to blow when the voltage peaks.

Adapters and regulators can all be sourced in Libya, however we would suggest you bring them with you as you will find the shopping experience much less stressful in your home country than that in Libya.  As a newcomer it takes time to learn where to find specific items and so the less hassle early on in your relocation the better.

I am planning on having a baby during my stay in Libya.  Do expats generally stay in Libya to have a baby or do they travel home?

Most expats travel home to have a baby, for the reasons of family support and known medical care.  Having said that, there are expats who have both delivered naturally and also had C-sections in Tripoli and were happy with the experience.  It is really up to your own personal choice.  If you think you may have complications during birth it would be recommended that you return home to have your baby, for your own peace of mind.

It is also important to note that once you reach approximately 7 months, most airlines will not allow you to fly meaning that you will not be able to change your mind on which country you deliver your baby.

Once born, your child will require a passport and visa to leave or enter Libya.

Do you have more questions that we haven’t covered in the website?  Send them to us and we’ll do our best to answer them and include them on the site!