Global Companies Pursue Algeria’s Oil and Gas Licensing
Around 60 international companies have expressed interest in Algeria's recent bidding round for exploring seven oil and gas blocks. This strong international engagement is further evidenced by more than 53 companies that have already accessed virtual data rooms to review detailed technical and geological information.
The licensing round, launched by the National Agency for the Valorization of Hydrocarbon Resources (ALNAFT) in April 2026, encompasses areas in Illizi, Omar Idriss, Hassi Dzira, and Berkine. These blocks collectively cover an extensive area exceeding 48,900 square kilometers, indicating substantial opportunities for hydrocarbon exploration and development.
Potential resources within the offered blocks are estimated at approximately 1.8 billion barrels of oil and 8.63 billion cubic meters of gas. These figures represent preliminary estimates that will require confirmation through subsequent exploration and evaluation operations conducted by successful bidders.
Algeria aims to leverage this initiative to attract foreign investment and expertise, further develop its energy resources, enhance the security of its energy supplies, and maintain its robust export capabilities. Bids are scheduled for submission and opening on January 25, 2027, with contracts expected to be signed with Sonatrach before the end of March of the same year.
