Natalie Haddad

1 week ago | the961.com | Natalie Haddad

Cheaper flights from Beirut? Count us in!Lebanon’s national carrier, Middle East Airlines (MEA), is officially looking into launching a low-cost Lebanese airline – and yes, that could finally mean affordable travel to Europe and the Middle East straight from Beirut. The plan is to create a budget airline under the MEA group, but fully independent.

2 weeks ago | the961.com | Natalie Haddad

Lebanon’s own Whish Money just took a major step forward in regional e-commerce. The fintech company has officially launched Whish Pay on Shopify, making it the first cardless checkout option for Lebanese on the e-commerce platform. The move makes online payments faster, simpler, and fully cashless – giving businesses and shoppers a smoother way to buy and sell online. A move that will increase conversion rates for stores.

2 weeks ago | the961.com | Natalie Haddad

At the first-ever Cyber Games 2025 in Malaysia, a Lebanese-led team absolutely crushed the competition, scoring 1st place out of 50 countries. Yes, you read that right. Lebanon came first, beating out cybersecurity talent from across the world. The winning team, Team Blue, was led by Assem Awad, a Lebanese cybersecurity expert who guided his team through four intense days of hacking challenges, digital investigations, and cybercrime simulations.

2 weeks ago | the961.com | Natalie Haddad

A ferry line between Lebanon and Cyprus is officially in the works, and if all goes according to plan, you’ll soon be able to hop on a boat in Jounieh and sail straight to Larnaca by ferry – in just about four hours. Cyprus’ Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades confirmed to Cyprus Mail that a group of investors has proposed launching passenger ferry crossings. This new route will enhance travel options for tourists looking to explore Cyprus by ferry.

2 weeks ago | the961.com | Natalie Haddad

Summer hasn’t even started yet, and things are already heating up among the Lebanese beer brands. Almaza just launched a rosé beer ahead of the season, and they went all in on the promo. You’ve probably seen their pink-themed banners and ads all over the place. But their longtime rival, Beirut Beer, wasn’t having it.