In 2019 Algeria welcomed roughly 3.5 million international tourists. However, the majority of these were Algerian citizens living abroad, and is dwarfed by its neighbours, with Morocco seeing 13 million visitors in the same period. For a country that is home to stunning landscapes, both Roman and Muslim historical wonders and a plethora of beautiful cities, tourists barely give Algeria a second thought. With the removal of 51/49 foreign investment laws and the end of coronavirus restrictions, the virtually untouched Algerian tourism industry is an unexploited gem for prospective investors compared to the oversaturated markets of Morocco and Tunisia.

The Regulatory Environment

Currently, obtaining tourist visas for entry into Algeria is a lengthy process and requires a large number of documents. To improve the ease of application, much of the application process will be digitised, no longer requiring physical mailing to the local embassy and instead allowing online submission. Furthermore, the administration apparatus for approvals will be streamlined to decrease turnaround times for visa approval. Cost of application will be placed at $50 for all countries.

To boost numbers, visa on arrival, requiring only the presentation of passport, proof of return ticket and proof of first accomodation, will be administered to the following countries: France, Germany, Belgium, The Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Portugal, UK, Ireland, Sweden, Norway, Finland, US, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Russia, Greece, The People’s Republic of China.

Lifting of restrictions around the import and sale of alcohol will be introduced to allow for hotels, clubs and bars to accommodate foreign guests and their desire to drink, as well as boost nightlife tourism. Venues will be able to apply for import and service of alcohol licenses, and all employees involved in serving alcohol must obtain a Responsible Service of Alcohol certificate through completion of an online assessment. Gambling will also be given limited licensing opportunities in Algiers and Oran. Furthermore, taxi companies will now be allowed to operate in the country.

Investment

The main goal of this is to attract high-value tourism, which will be achieved through inviting foreign companies to open luxury and boutique hotels and resorts. Resorts that cater to niche but rich tourism concepts, such as health resorts and yoga retreats, are also highly encouraged.

Constantine: built atop a grand ravine, the city features a stunning network of intricate bridges and beautiful Ottoman architecture. This location is perfect for hotels designed with great attention to architectural detail that exude class and exclusivity. The lush green mountainous terrain is also ideal for luxurious nature retreats for those wishing to have a more down to earth experience.

Algiers and Oran: Algeria’s largest cities, perfect for hotels wishing to cater to those who wish to explore the winding maze of traditional Kasbahs by day and indulge in the exuberance of city life by night. In Oran, authorities would like to offer land along 19th of March Boulevard, as well as approval for land reclamation, for the development of a luxury resort complex along the stunning Mediterranean coast. The area would host multiple resorts, luxury shopping and dining opportunities, extensive greenery, a private boat dock, and special security services to ensure guests enjoy maximum safety. We are hoping to offer this to French and Emirati investors.

Chrea: situated in the Atlas Mountains, this town is the preeminent ski destination in Algeria, which will be further developed to ensure year round tourism opportunities. Swiss and French companies will be invited to develop ski lodges of varying price ranges, although the ski slopes themselves will be operated by the local HTT Group. Local authorities also hope to work with foreign companies to develop and improve hiking and mountain bike trails in this stunning mountainous region to ensure workers can have year-round employment.

Historical ruins: Algeria is dotted with numerous ruins and locations that inspire wonder and are sure to encourage flocks of adventurous and curious travellers. These sites will have nearby facilities constructed or upgraded with the Algerian Tourism Authority being tasked with preserving and monitoring these sites. At some locations, luxurious retreats will be constructed, using architecture to blend the romantic ideas of ancient Rome with modern comforts. Security forces will have an increased presence in these regions as many of them are within operation areas of bandits and terrorist groups.