Algiers, DZWatch – Shifting away from a decades-long reliance on energy revenues, Algeria is increasingly looking towards sustainable alternatives to oil and gas. Tourism is emerging as a critical sector in this diversification strategy, driven by evolving government policies and growing international interest in Algeria as a unique travel destination.
Recent data highlights Algeria’s nascent but promising position in the Arab tourism landscape. While still in its early stages of development, the sector generated approximately $0.13 billion in revenue during 2024.
This figure, though modest compared to established regional players, signifies a vital step for an economy actively building its tourism infrastructure. According to the latest data, Algeria ranked twelfth among Arab nations in terms of revenue generated from international tourists.
The United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia lead the region with estimated revenues of $57 billion and $41 billion, respectively, followed by Morocco at $11.3 billion and Qatar at $8.4 billion. Several other countries, including Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait, also surpass Algeria in tourism revenue, underscoring the considerable gap in tourism development and exploitation.
For years, Algeria remained largely absent from the global tourism map due to factors such as limited openness, complex visa procedures, and insufficient international promotion. However, this is gradually changing. Specialized tour operators, international media outlets, and content creators are increasingly drawn to Algeria’s largely untapped potential.
Algeria offers a wealth of attractions, from the vast Sahara Desert and rich historical sites to stunning coastal landscapes. As the country continues to invest in infrastructure, streamline visa processes, and actively promote its unique offerings, tourism is poised to play an increasingly significant role in Algeria’s economic future.
