Algeria
Subregion: Northern Africa
Algeria is a country located in Northern Africa. The Capital City is Algiers. The government is a semi-presidential republic. The common languages of the country are Arabic and Berber. The predominant religion is Islam. Healthcare is provided to the population by a universal healthcare system. Algeria has the second largest number of hospitals and doctors in Africa.
Safety:
Algeria has its own set of safety concerns that residents should be aware of. There have been incidents of terrorism in Algeria in the past, particularly in remote areas. Travelers should be aware of this and exercise caution when traveling in certain parts of the country; most of it is centralized around the borders to Tunisia, Niger and Libya. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft can occur in Algeria, particularly in crowded areas and markets. Travelers should take precautions to secure their valuables and be aware of their surroundings. Demonstrations and protests can occur in Algeria, and these events can sometimes turn violent. Travelers should avoid participating in or getting too close to any demonstrations. Road accidents are common in Algeria, and the country has one of the highest rates of road accidents in Africa. Travelers should exercise caution when driving and be aware of the conditions of the roads they are traveling on. Algeria has an extensive road network, but the quality of the roads can vary greatly. Some roads are well-maintained and paved, while others are poorly maintained and unpaved. Driving in Algeria can be challenging due to the country's mountainous terrain, desert landscapes, and unpredictable weather conditions. Drivers should be prepared for these conditions and take extra precautions when driving in remote areas. Traffic congestion is a common issue in Algeria's major cities, particularly Algiers. Travelers should be prepared for heavy traffic and plan accordingly to avoid delays. Road signs and markings in Algeria can be inconsistent and confusing. Travelers should be prepared to rely on their own navigational skills and should consider using GPS or a map to help them navigate the roads.
Cultural Customs:
Algeria is a country located in North Africa with a diverse cultural heritage that has been shaped by a rich history of colonization, Arab and Islamic influences, and Berber traditions. Here are some of the cultural customs that are commonly observed in Algeria: Algerians are known for their warm and welcoming hospitality towards guests. It is customary to offer tea or coffee to visitors, and to make sure they are well-fed during their stay. Algeria is a predominantly Muslim country, and Islamic customs are deeply ingrained in daily life. This includes daily prayers, fasting during Ramadan, and dressing modestly. Family is highly valued in Algerian culture, and extended families often live in close proximity to each other. Elders are respected and their opinions are often sought out in family decisions. Algerian cuisine is a fusion of Berber, Arab, and Mediterranean influences. It includes dishes such as couscous, tagines, and harira soup. Traditional Algerian dress varies by region, but typically includes long robes and headscarves for women, and djellabas (long, loose-fitting robes) for men. Music and dance are an important part of Algerian culture. Popular traditional music styles include Chaabi, Rai, and Andalusian music. Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are strictly observed in Algeria, as well as national holidays such as Independence Day and Revolution Day. Algerian artisans are known for their intricate pottery, carpets, and textiles. Traditional Berber and Islamic motifs are commonly used in these crafts. Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Algeria, and the national team has enjoyed success on the international stage. Other popular sports include handball, basketball, and athletics. The right hand is used to eat and also give and receive anything. Pointing with your index finger is considered very rude, use your whole hand instead. PDA is not permitted in public spaces. Women should be dressed in modest garments that cover from shoulders to below the knee. Alcohol is not widely consumed but there are bars in larger cities however, they don’t generally serve women that are unaccompanied. Islamic holidays are strictly observed.
Geography & Weather:
North Algeria has lush vegetation and beaches and southern Algeria is largely Saharan desert.
In the city of Algiers, which is on the north coast of the country, the average temperature ranges from 42 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is January with a median temperature of 52 degrees F and July/August being the hottest months with a median temperature of 79 degrees F. November - January is the rainy season with the average rainfall being 3 inches per month during this time.
In Sétif, which is in the mountain region (1000 meters above sea level), the average temperature ranges from 33 to 93 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is January with a median temperature of 42 degrees F and August is the hottest month with a median temperature of 79 degrees F. There isn’t a rainy season in this area. Thunderstorms happen rarely and the entire area gets approximately 1.5 inches of rain per month except in summer when there is none.
In the desert region, in the south of the country, the average temperature ranges from 45 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is January with a median temperature of 53 degrees F and July being the hottest month with a median temperature of 94 degrees F. There isn’t a rainy season in this area. The daily sunshine hours slightly decrease the further south you go.
Economy:
Algeria is a North African country with a population of approximately 44 million people. The country is rich in natural resources, particularly oil and gas, which account for the majority of its exports and government revenues. However, the economy has faced challenges in recent years, including low oil prices, high unemployment, and social unrest. According to the World Bank, Algeria's economy contracted by 4.9% in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and lower oil prices. Unemployment has also been a persistent problem in the country, with an overall unemployment rate of around 12% in 2020, according to the International Labour Organization. Youth unemployment, in particular, has been a major challenge, with rates estimated to be as high as 30% in some regions. To address these issues, the Algerian government has implemented various measures, including economic diversification, investment in infrastructure, and social welfare programs. However, progress has been slow, and corruption and bureaucratic inefficiencies have hampered efforts to improve the economy and create jobs. In addition to economic challenges, Algeria has faced social and political unrest in recent years, with protests calling for political reform and greater economic opportunities. The government has responded with some measures, including constitutional reforms and increased social spending, but widespread change has been slow to materialize.
Currency/Foreign Exchange Rate:
Algerian Dinar (DZD)
DZD 1.00 = USD .0071
Country Stats:
Population (2020):
43,851,044
Median Age:
28.5
Life Expectancy:
77.5
Visa Requirements:
Needed for Entry for US Citizens? Yes
Cost: Tourist Visa, single entry good for 90 days - $15.00
For stays over 90 days you will need to apply for a work visa which will permit you to live and work in Algeria for a determined amount of time. There are requirements for this type of visa, a potential employer will need to submit the application for you. A work visa that is over 1 year will allow you access to other programs within the country and permit you to open a bank account.
Citizenship Requirements:
Dual citizenship - No
Naturalization - Algerian citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions: Person has resided in Algeria for at least seven years, (18 months if the person was born abroad to an Algerian mother or father), is of good morality, good health, has no criminal convictions, is at least 21 years of age, has assimilated into Algerian society and has a secure means of support.
Residency Requirements:
Permanent residency does not exist in Algeria, however foreigners may reside temporarily on a long term basis, depending on particular reasons or motives. In the case of a foreigner being married to an Algerian citizen, the foreign spouse may request permission to reside in Algeria once they have lawfully lived in the country for 2 years. They must have also integrated into the community.
Resources:
Algerian Foreign Ministry - Immigration
U.S. Embassy Algiers
5 Chemin Cheikh Bachir Ibrahimi
El-Biar
16030 Algiers
Algeria
Telephone: (213) 770-08-2000
Emergency after-hours telephone: (213) 770-08-2200
Fax: 0770-08-2299
Email: ACSAlgiers@state.gov
*Notable information for the Diaspora*
There are significant race issues that affect black people in Algeria. Discrimination is present in the culture. Being Muslim certainly helps but you may still experience rejection in your daily life. The cities to the south in the sahara have more of a population of black and brown skinned people.