The Chinese government has resumed work on the construction of the new National Conservatory in the Dbayeh area, after years of suspension due to health and security crises that have hit the country and the region. This project is considered one of the most prominent cultural initiatives undertaken by China in Lebanon, as the new conservatory is expected to become the largest of its kind in Lebanon and the Middle East.

The project was launched in 2019, when a financing and implementation agreement was signed between the Chinese government and the Lebanese side, within the framework of enhancing cultural relations and artistic exchange between the two countries. However, exceptional circumstances prevented its completion on schedule. The project first suffered a setback with the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a total lockdown and the suspension of most construction activities in Lebanon and around the world. After the pandemic's impact subsided, the project faced another blow due to escalating security tensions in Lebanon and the war that targeted the country, which once again brought the works to a halt.

With relative stability returning and development projects resuming, China decided to relaunch the worksite at the conservatory, in a move that reflects its commitment to supporting Lebanon’s cultural sector and developing its infrastructure. The project is expected to be completed in the coming months and officially inaugurated at the beginning of next year.

The new conservatory will feature a main hall with a capacity of about 1,200 people, making it one of the largest music venues in Lebanon and the region. It will also include an 8-story building with dozens of rooms dedicated to higher education in music, instrumental performance, and singing. In addition, it will house state-of-the-art recording studios, a large music library, and a theater for student performances and cultural events.

The importance of this project goes beyond its size and technical capabilities. It plays a pivotal role in supporting music education in Lebanon and providing a professional environment for both students and artists. Moreover, the conservatory is expected to serve as a platform for hosting local and international musical performances, reinforcing Lebanon’s position as a cultural hub in the region despite the challenges it faces.

Those overseeing the project also hope that the inauguration of the new National Conservatory will mark the beginning of a new chapter for Lebanon’s musical scene, opening up broad horizons for emerging talents and restoring Lebanon’s leading cultural status in the region.