Mourning Unites Lebanon: Fairuz in Attendance at Ziad Rahbani's Funeral
Ziad Rahbani's Emotional Farewell: A National Event in Lebanon
Ziad Rahbani, a renowned Lebanese composer, playwright, and political provocateur, was laid to rest in a poignant funeral ceremony on July 28, 2025, in his hometown of Mhaydseh near Bikfaya, east of Beirut. The event, held at the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin, was a significant gathering for Lebanese society, as it brought together a diverse crowd of musicians, designers, politicians, former presidents, government ministers, and ordinary citizens.
The attendance of Ziad's mother, Fairuz, one of the most iconic voices of Lebanon, was particularly notable. She made a rare and highly emotional public appearance, sitting at the front of the church, near her son's coffin, during the four-hour-long funeral mass. Fairuz, who wore black sunglasses and a veil, was often shielded by those around her and occasionally spoke quietly with her daughter Rima.
Prominent figures from the political sphere were also in attendance. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam arrived at the funeral around 3.30pm, and Hezbollah had a presence as well, reflecting Rahbani’s broad impact across Lebanon’s political and social spectrum. President Aoun did not attend the funeral, but his wife, Nehmat Aoun, was present.
Prime Minister Salam described Ziad Rahbani as a creator of "genius," and he awarded the Order of Cedar at the rank of Commander to Rahbani on behalf of President Joseph Aoun. Other notable attendees included Majida El Roumi, another famous Lebanese singer, and Pierre Boustani, who expressed sadness for Fairuz and fondness for Ziad Rahbani.
The funeral took place at a Greek Orthodox church, with its majestic white-bricked exterior and orange roof, and an olive-tree-peppered courtyard that hosted attendees. The setting overlooked the mountains east of Beirut, adding a poignant natural backdrop to the farewell ceremonies. The event was extensively covered by Lebanese television and media outlets, reflecting Rahbani’s status as a national icon.
Fairuz had not been seen publicly since she was photographed meeting French President Emmanuel Macron in 2020. Her appearance at the funeral was deeply significant and extensively covered by the media. The funeral marked the end of an era for Lebanese culture and politics, as Ziad Rahbani's legacy continues to be deeply woven into both.
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- Lebanese composer Ziad Rahbani passes away
- Ziad Rahbani's Funeral: A National Mourning
- Fairuz attends Ziad Rahbani's funeral
- Ziad Rahbani's Funeral: A Tribute to a Cultural Icon
- Ziad Rahbani's Funeral: A Gathering of Lebanon's Elite
- Despite the ongoing tensions between nations such as Israel and Palestine, Syria, and Lebanon, the news of Ziad Rahbani's funeral was a topic of interest across the region.
- A UAE-based online entertainment platform featured a special segment on the emotional farewell of Ziad Rahbani, showcasing clips from the funeral and interviews with attendees.
- In a show of solidarity, artists from various countries, including music giants like Justin Bieber and Adele, expressed their condolences and paid tribute to the late Ziad Rahbani, with a special music event dedicated to him.
- Amidst the politics and adoration for Ziad Rahbani, there was a call for unity and peace in the region, with supporters advocating for a 'Rahbani for Peace' movement, to honor his legacy and promote harmony in the Middle East.
