striker26,
Having a backup plan is one of the wisest choices indeed.
As for flight training in Beirut, we currently have 3 flying clubs that offer the DGCA (LCAA) PPL only, no further training can be done over here. Besides, even if they do offer further training one day, it would be foolish for someone to do it here as the industry is dead and fuel prices are at their peaks. PS: 1 hr dry in a 172 costs around 300-350$.
Aviation is a dead industry over here. We only have ONE airline in our country which is our national flag carrier. They only hire through a cadet program that is launched once every 3 years or so depending on their needs (fleet expansion, retirements...). No direct entries whatsoever; first officers through the cadet program and captains with seniority only.
Absolutely no flying jobs if I go through the old fashioned "modular way up"; it would be a waste of time and a waste of money in my country, unless I'm going to do it abroad and not come back before logging the 1500 hours.
Most airlines in Europe if not all of them have the minimum requirement: "Must have the legal right to live and work in the EU". Not having an EU passport leaves me out of any opportunities in Europe, so I have phased out EASA training.
That is the reason I look forward to FAA/TC training should I not find a place on a cadet program. But again, as you said it's a risk and not an easy ladder to climb having no citizenship in the mentioned countries.