Sidi Bel Abbés to Host 15th National Raï Festival in 2026

The 15th National Raï Song Festival is set to return to Sidi Bel Abbés from August 31 to September 3, 2026. This revival of the significant cultural event was announced by Minister of Culture Malika Bendouda, who highlighted the choice of Sidi Bel Abbés as the historic cradle of Raï music, where the genre’s distinct sounds and echoes originated.

The upcoming edition is themed around "roots" and will pay tribute to Saadia Bédiaf, widely known by her artistic name Cheikha Remitti. This recognition acknowledges her artistic journey and pivotal role in sharing the authenticity and legacy of Raï with an international audience. The festival aims to reconnect with the genre's origins and reaffirm its deep-seated presence within Algerian popular culture.

Minister Bendouda underscored that the festival's return to its historic birthplace is more than an organizational decision; it is an opportunity to strengthen the memory and reaffirm Raï's integral link to Algeria’s cultural identity. Described as "one of Algeria’s most beautiful gifts to the world," Raï has transcended national borders, becoming part of universal memory as Algerian heritage. The Ministry of Culture plans for this special edition to showcase the richness of the Algerian spirit and commemorate the journey of this "gentle musical revolution," which once conveyed the concerns and joys of ordinary people before achieving global recognition.