Khan Al-Saboun
Preserving Nature, Crafting Timeless Beauty
By Alhanouf Mohammed Alrowaili
In the rolling hills near Tripoli, Lebanon, lies Khan Al-Saboun, a unique sanctuary where nature’s wisdom and centuries-old traditions come alive. Founded by Dr. Bader Hassoun is a vibrant eco-village that blends Lebanese heritage with sustainable living. For over 800 years, the Hassoun family has handcrafted soap using only natural ingredients from the land, preserving an ancient craft rooted in respect for nature and community.
Dr. Bader Hassoun elevated this tradition by integrating ancestral knowledge with modern science, creating not just soap but a sustainable ecosystem focused on education, cultural preservation, and environmental stewardship. His son, Amir Hassoun, now carries forward this mission, balancing authenticity with modern environmental challenges and global wellness trends.
The Environmental Village operates on principles of organic agriculture, renewable energy, and minimal environmental impact. All ingredients, including olives, lavender, rosemary, basil, and thyme, are grown on-site without pesticides or chemicals. The soap-making process follows a traditional cold method, allowing soaps to cure naturally, preserving their purity and healing properties.
The village also supports biodiversity by cultivating crops that attract and sustain local wildlife such as bees and birds, using regenerative farming to enrich the soil. The village produces a range of pure, organic products, including laurel soap, extra virgin olive oil, and aromatic skincare items. These products reflect Lebanon’s rich biodiversity and the family’s deep connection to the land.
Every stage of production is controlled by the Hassouns, ensuring 100% organic, chemical-free formulations backed by international organic certifications. Signature ingredients like extra virgin olive oil and laurel oil, combined with native Lebanese herbs, carry centuries of traditional knowledge.
Visitors to the Environmental Village can immerse themselves in a hands-on eco-experience: exploring herb gardens, participating in soap-making workshops, enjoying wellness treatments, and tasting some all-natural edible soaps. Education plays a vital role through interactive workshops and tours designed to inspire visitors toward more natural, mindful living.
The village is closely integrated with local communities, supporting farmers and artisans through fair partnerships that promote economic and cultural sustainability. Preserving Lebanese heritage is central to its ethos, keeping ancient traditions alive amid modern challenges.
Sustainability underpins every aspect of the village from renewable energy use and biodegradable packaging to waste reduction through composting and water recycling. The village creates a closed-loop system where agricultural waste nourishes the land, and biodiversity is actively supported. Future includes expanding solar energy, green spaces, and launching an environmental education center for youth, positioning the village as a regional model for eco-tourism and sustainable living.
Despite its small village origins, Dr. Bader Hassoun’s Environmental Village enjoys global recognition. Its products are favored by prominent figures worldwide, including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Pope Francis, Donald Trump, and King Charles III. The soap range spans from affordable bars priced at $1 to luxurious editions valued at over $80,000, including the Guinness World Record-holding gold-infused soap crafted with diamonds, pearls, and over 60 natural oils.
Maintaining organic purity and quality amidst seasonal harvests poses challenges, but the village remains steadfast to its founding principles. Amir Hassoun aims to expand the brand globally while deepening local impact through education, green initiatives, and innovation grounded in tradition.
At its heart, the Environmental Village embodies a belief that true beauty comes from nature, patience, and respect for roots. There are no shortcuts nature itself offers the purest care. More than a brand, the village is a living legacy, reflecting Dr. Bader Hassoun’s dream and Amir’s mission to preserve timeless, natural beauty.
As Amir says, “In every bar of soap, there’s a story not just of olive oil and herbs, but of a land, a family, and a dream that believes the most beautiful things grow slowly, naturally, and with love.”
