Beirut Souks Revival: Retail, Culture, and Archaeology (2025–2026)
After years of economic strain and the long recovery following the 2020 Beirut port explosion, Beirut Souks entered a clear revival phase in 2025, gradually re-establishing itself as one of downtown Beirut’s most active commercial and cultural spaces.
Retail and lifestyle comeback
Throughout 2025, a steady wave of reopenings brought international and regional brands back to the Souks, with occupancy rising progressively over the year. The return was led by the Azadea Group, which reintroduced several flagship brands including Adidas, Mango, Pull & Bear, Bershka, Massimo Dutti, Stradivarius, Oysho, and Calzedonia.
A major milestone came in October 2025 with the reopening of Zara’s flagship store. Spanning three floors, the space reflects Zara’s updated global concept, emphasizing wider circulation, digital integration, and contemporary store design. Alongside it, Zacaffè opened inside the flagship, marking the first Zacaffè concept in Lebanon.
Zacaffè in context
Zacaffè is a selective lifestyle extension of Zara, previously introduced in a limited number of flagship locations internationally, including parts of Spain and Western Europe. In Beirut Souks, Zacaffè functions as a calm, minimalist café, inspired by Zara Home aesthetics. Rather than operating as a standalone café, it offers visitors a pause within the shopping environment, reflecting a broader shift toward experience-driven retail.
Additional openings during the revival phase included Creed (luxury fragrance), SOOP (collectibles and design objects), Alo, MRKT, and new dining concepts, expanding the Souks’ offer beyond fashion into lifestyle, food, and specialty retail.
Archaeology at the heart of the Souks
What continues to distinguish Beirut Souks from regional shopping centers is its direct integration with archaeological remains. The complex was built over excavated layers revealing Roman streets, Byzantine structures, and Ottoman-era remains, highlighting Beirut’s long urban continuity.
In 2025, sections of the archaeological zone became accessible again, with walkways and protective viewing panels allowing visitors to observe the ruins within the modern retail environment. This renewed visibility reinforces Beirut Souks as a hybrid space where commerce and heritage coexist.