Adrar to Host International Saharan Tourism Festival

Minister of Tourism and Handicrafts Madahi Houria chaired the first coordination meeting for the 8th International Saharan Tourism Festival, scheduled for November 12-14, 2026, in Adrar province. The Minister also oversaw the official appointment of the festival's commissioner. This international promotional event aims to enhance both national and international Saharan tourism through unique experiences, with a focus on its economic dimension.

The festival seeks to showcase authentic and distinctive Saharan spiritual and cultural tourism, emphasizing elements such as culture, hospitality, diverse traditions, the desert environment, ancient civilization, traditional attire, folklore, music, art, and cuisine. Organizers also aim to highlight Adrar's specific spiritual and cultural tourism assets, including ancient ksours, green oases, unique irrigation systems, and religious and cultural events like the "Waada of Sebaa," a UNESCO-listed intangible heritage. These efforts are intended to support local development and increase tourist attraction in the region.

Recognizing the importance of digitalization in the tourism sector, the Minister stressed the need to involve startups from the southern regions active in tourism. A key initiative includes an award for the best startup offering innovative tourism services and effective marketing of Saharan cultural heritage. Additionally, the event will feature a "Museum of Authentic Traditional Industry of the Southern Provinces" tent, providing live workshops where artisans, including rural women, can demonstrate their crafts and creativity. This underscores the national authorities' commitment to Saharan tourism as a vital source of sustainability and local development in southern Algeria.