BEIRUT, Lebanon – Fans gathered in Beirut’s Hamra district on July 28, 2025, to bid a final farewell to the iconic musician Ziad Rahbani, as his coffin was carried out of Khoury Hospital. The outpouring of emotion preceded his funeral procession to his final resting place.
Thousands of admirers paid tribute to the late artist Ziad Rahbani, congregating outside Khoury Hospital in Beirut’s Hamra area on July 28, 2025, to honor him as his coffin emerged. The heartfelt ceremony marked the beginning of his journey to his final resting place.
🚨🚨 The last farewell to Ziyad Rahbani from the in front of Khoury Hospital in Al -Hamra pic.twitter.com/FA746oyG3w
— bintjbeil.org (@bintjbeilnews) July 28, 2025
Applause and traditional ululations, known as zargaid, filled the air as Rahbani’s body was transported from Hamra to the town of Bakfiya. Fans showered the coffin with flowers as it departed. The funeral service is scheduled to take place at the Church of the Lady’s Raqda in Al-Muddi, within the Al-Matn region.
The Rahbani family had announced the funeral arrangements for the celebrated artist, who passed away Saturday morning at the age of 69.
Presidential Tribute to a Cultural Icon
Lebanon’s President, General Joseph Aoun, offered his condolences, remembering Ziad Rahbani for his exceptional artistic career. He described Rahbani not merely as an artist, but as an “integrated intellectual and cultural situation,” a “living conscience,” a “rebellious voice on injustice,” and a “sincere mirror for the tormented and marginalized,” according to a statement from the Lebanese presidency.
Aoun elaborated that Rahbani captured the nation’s pain in his work. He played “the strings of truth, without equivalent.” Through his impactful theater and diverse musical compositions, blending classical, jazz, and oriental styles, Rahbani presented a singular artistic vision. His work opened new avenues for Lebanese cultural expression, reaching global audiences.
Ziad Rahbani was seen as a natural continuation of the esteemed Rahbani family’s legacy, which has significantly enriched Lebanon with “beauty and dignity.” As the son of composer Assi Rahbani and the legendary singer Fayrouz, often referred to as Lebanon’s “ambassador to the stars,” the nation extends its deepest sympathies. The loss is deeply felt by many who shared multiple connections with Rahbani, alongside heartfelt condolences to the wider Rahbani family.
In his closing remarks, President Aoun stated that Ziad Rahbani’s “many and distinctive works will remain alive in the memory of the Lebanese and the Arabs.” These creations will continue to inspire future generations, serving as a reminder that “art can be resistance, and that the word can be a position.”
Rahbani is remembered for his profound contributions to Arab music and satirical political theater. The son of Fayrouz and Assi Rahbani, he cultivated a unique style from a young age, characterized by artistic depth, dark humor, and bold political commentary.
.jpg)
.jpg)
