Money and duty free for Libya

Currency and Money

Currency information

Libyan Dinar (LYD; symbol LD) = 1,000 dirhams. Notes are in denominations of LD20, 10, 5, 1, 1/2 and 1/4 dinars. Coins are in denominations of 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 dirhams and 1/2 and 1/4 dinars.

Credit cards

Libya is a cash society. Credit cards are not widely used, although some are accepted in major hotels and banks. You can walk into some of the major banks and ask if it is possible to withdraw cash against your credit card. Recent reports from travellers suggest that this is possible in Benghazi and Tripoli, although it may depend on individual cases and the information is liable to change.

ATM

There are working ATMs in Tripoli, Benghazi and some other towns. In the capital, head to Martyrs' Square, where you'll find branches of the major Libyan banks. Visa and Mastercard are accepted; American Express may also be in some cases. Some ATMs in Libya have built-in MP3 players that blare tracks while you wait for your money. There are also mobile ATMs, attached to the back of small vans, that move around Tripoli, parking in various places; again, try the area around Martyrs' Square if you're looking for one of these.

Travellers cheques

Traveller's cheques are generally not accepted anywhere in Libya. Western Union operates in Tripoli, Benghazi and some other towns. Check the company's website for listings of providers.

Banking hours

Sat-Thurs 0700-1400 and 1600-1800. Most banks are closed on Fridays, Sundays and on Saturday afternoons.

Currency restrictions

The import and export of local currency is prohibited. Import of foreign currency is subject to declaration, export is limited to the amount declared on arrival.

Libya duty free

Overview

Duty-free information unavailable at the time of writing.

Banned Imports

All alcohol is prohibited, as are arms, erotic literature and pork products. All goods made in Israel or manufactured by companies that do business with Israel are prohibited, for instance Coca Cola and certain makes of CDs. Bags are X-rayed upon arrival. For a full list of prohibited items, contact the nearest Libyan diplomatic representative.

Banned Exports

Firearms, and historic artefacts, including items of ancient Roman, Greek and Byzantine origin.