Orientation briefing in Algeria

Algeria has known many empires and dynasties, including the ancient Numidians (3rd century B.C.), Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, over a dozen different Arab and Amazigh dynasties, Spaniards, and Ottoman Turks. Under the Turks, the Barbary pirates operated from North Africa and preyed on shipping, from about 1500 until the French captured Algiers in 1830. The French southward conquest of Algeria proceeded throughout the 19th century and was marked by many atrocities. A bloody eight-year struggle culminated in Algerian independence in 1962.

Algeria's long-dominant political party, the National Liberation Front (FLN), was established in 1954 as part of the struggle for independence and has since played a large role in politics, though it is falling out of favor with the youth and current President Abdelmadjid TEBBOUNE. The Government of Algeria in 1988 instituted a multi-party system in response to public unrest, but the surprising first-round success of the Islamic Salvation Front (FIS) in the 1991 legislative election led the Algerian military to intervene and postpone the second round of elections to prevent what the secular elite feared would be an extremist-led government from assuming power. An army crackdown on the FIS escalated into an FIS insurgency and intense violence from 1992-98 that resulted in over 100,000 deaths, many of which were attributed to extremist groups massacring villagers. The government gained the upper hand by the late 1990s, and FIS’s armed wing, the Islamic Salvation Army, disbanded in 2000. FIS membership is now illegal.

In 1999, Abdelaziz BOUTEFLIKA won the presidency with the backing of the military, in an election that was boycotted by several candidates protesting alleged fraud.  He won subsequent elections in 2004, 2009, and 2014. Widespread protests against his decision to seek a fifth term broke out in early 2019. BOUTEFLIKA resigned in April 2019, and in December 2019, Algerians elected former Prime Minister Abdelmadjid TEBBOUNE as the country’s new president. A longtime FLN member, TEBBOUNE ran for president as an independent. In 2020, Algeria held a constitutional referendum on governmental reforms, which TEBBOUNE enacted in 2021. Subsequent reforms to the national electoral law introduced open-list voting to curb corruption. The new law also eliminated gender quotas in Parliament, and the 2021 legislative elections saw female representation plummet. The referendum, parliamentary elections, and local elections saw record-low voter turnout.

Algeria has a visible security presence across the country that gives considerable attention to the safety of its visitors. Demonstrations and other forms of protest are subject to various restrictions. You should take precautions for your personal safety by avoiding political gatherings and demonstrations. Follow instructions given by local security authorities. 

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Algeria border areas

FCDO advises against all travel to within 30km of Algeria’s borders with:

• Libya
• Mauritania
• Mali
• Niger
• Tunisia – in the provinces of Illizi and Ouargla and in the Chaambi mountains area

Rest of the Algeria-Tunisia border

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 30km of the rest of Algeria’s border with Tunisia.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

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Terrorism  

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.      

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Algeria 

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Algeria.  

Terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:    

• transport hubs
• locations popular with tourists and foreigners
• government buildings
• crowded places
• businesses with western interests

There is also a risk that lone actors target foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

The threat from terrorism is higher in some parts of the country, including: 

• the southern border, where the kidnap risk is concentrated 
• the Libyan and Tunisian borders 
• rural, and in particular mountainous, areas in the north and between Tunisia and Algiers 
• the Sahara 

The terrorist threat comes from individuals inspired by Islamist extremist and anti-Semitic ideology and established groups, such as Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM). These groups have been active across the country and likely consider Western nationals legitimate targets.

The Algerian authorities conduct effective counter-terrorism operations and retain a strong, visible security presence across the country.

Terrorist kidnap 

There is a threat of kidnapping by groups operating in North Africa, particularly from Libya, Mauritania and groups originating in the Sahel. This includes AQIM and Daesh-affiliated groups, who may travel across the region’s porous border. There is a heightened risk of kidnap in border and remote desert areas of North Africa, particularly in the southern and eastern border areas (bordering Mali and Libya respectively). Terrorist groups have kidnapped foreigners, government officials and civilians in the region for financial gain and for political leverage.  

British nationals are seen as legitimate targets, including tourists, humanitarian aid workers, journalists and business travellers. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to protect you or secure your safe release.  

The long-standing policy of the British government is to not make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) also makes payments to terrorists illegal.

Political situation  

Algeria has a visible security presence across the country that gives considerable attention to the safety of its visitors. Demonstrations and other forms of protest are subject to various restrictions. You should take precautions for your personal safety by avoiding political gatherings and demonstrations. Follow instructions given by local security authorities. 

Algeria-Morocco border 

The land border between Algeria and Morocco is closed. Do not attempt to cross it. 

Risk of arrest and detention

The Algerian authorities do not always inform the British Embassy when British nationals have been arrested. If you are detained, insist on your right to contact the British Embassy.

It can take time for the British Embassy to get the necessary permission to visit you.

Crime 

Protecting yourself and your belongings 

There is a risk of pickpocketing, robbery and petty theft in the larger cities in Algeria.  

You can take precautions such as: 

• avoiding areas that you do not know, especially after dark in the suburbs  
• not carrying large amounts of money or valuables 
• not accepting lifts from people you do not know – use a taxi service recommended by your hotel 

Maintain at least the same level of personal security awareness as in the UK and take care when walking or travelling alone. 

If you plan to tour the Casbah area of Algiers, use a good local guide and make sure your hosts or hotel know your plans.  

You should check the latest guidance of local authorities before moving around the country. 

Security escorts 

The Algerian authorities devote considerable resources to the safety of foreign visitors. There’s a clear security presence, which can feel intrusive. 

Laws and cultural differences  

Personal ID 

You will need your passport to check in to any hotels in Algeria. You do not have to carry your passport at all times, but take it with you on longer journeys. You must have your passport if you travel inside Algeria by air. Keep copies of your passport’s photo page and your visa or entry stamp in a separate place. 

Ramadan  

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country, next starting in February 2027. During this time, do not:  

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car  
• play loud music or dance  
• swear in public  

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.  

You should also:  

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants  
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens  
• be aware that most restaurants do not serve alcohol  
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time  
• be aware that fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the later afternoon and early evening 
• be patient and show tolerance 

Alcohol laws  

It is illegal to drink or be under the influence of alcohol in a public place. 

Illegal drugs and prison sentences 

There is zero tolerance for drugs-related offences. The penalties for trafficking, smuggling, using and possessing illegal drugs are severe and can include the death penalty depending upon the severity of the offence.

Mobile phone coverage 

Mobile phone coverage can be patchy or unavailable in more remote areas, particularly in the south of Algeria. Some online maps may not be accurate in remote areas. 

Using cameras in secure areas 

It is illegal to bring drones, binoculars, telescopes and certain types of photography equipment into Algeria without authorisation. If you have any doubt about items you plan to bring with you, contact the Algerian customs to check prior to your travel.

LGBT+ travellers 

Sexual acts between people of the same sex are illegal in Algeria. 

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers. 

Family law and child custody

Algerian family law is different from UK law. Mothers cannot renew their children’s passports without written consent from the father. Fathers can renew their children’s passports without needing the mother’s consent.

Algerian nationals, including dual-nationals, who enter the country on an Algerian passport, must leave the country on an Algerian passport, so if you are travelling with a child who has British-Algerian dual nationality, and you are unable to access a valid Algerian passport for them, you will not be able to bring the child out of Algeria without the father’s written consent or permission from the Algerian courts.

Military service

If you are a British male of Algerian origin, you may be liable for national service even if you have been living outside of Algeria. You can contact the Algerian consulate near you to check your status prior to travelling to Algeria.

Transport risks  

Road travel  

If you are planning to drive in Algeria, see information on driving abroad. 

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Algeria for up to 3 months after you first arrive. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well.  

The Algerian authorities may ask to see an IDP. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.   

If you are planning to hire a car, check with your car hire company for information on their requirements before you travel. 

Road conditions and safety 

Algeria has a very high road traffic accident rate and driving can be erratic.  

There is very little lane discipline and often confusion about the right of way, especially at roundabouts. Take particular care when crossing roads on foot, even where there is a signal allowing you to do so. 

Be cautious driving on minor roads, particularly at night outside towns. Roads and vehicles may not have lighting. 

In Algeria roads can have: 

• sand drifts – slow down as you approach these 
• large potholes, which can appear quickly, particularly after heavy rain 
• large speed bumps 

At military or police checkpoints, approach slowly, do not cross boundaries without permission and be prepared to show photo ID if asked. 

Check the availability of petrol stations before travelling long distances in remote areas. 

Taxis 

If you are taking a taxi, ask your hotel to phone a reputable firm and do not allow unknown passengers to join you. Ask the driver to collect you for the return journey as taxis are not widely available, particularly after dark. 

Rail travel 

Rail travel is generally safe, although safety standards tend to be lower than those in the UK. There is a risk of petty crime on trains. 

Extreme weather and natural disasters 

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards. 

Wildfires 

Wildfires take place most summers, causing significant damage and risk to life where they take place. Fires could flare up without warning, especially during periods of extreme weather. The General Directorate of Civil Contingency has released advice on how to help prevent wildfires and what to do if a wildfire breaks out near you. Always follow local advice and stay away from high risk areas.

Flooding 

Parts of Algeria are prone to severe and dangerous flood damage. There have been instances where people have been killed, houses submerged and cars swept away.  

Earthquakes 

Earthquakes are a risk in the northern part of Algeria, including Algiers.  

In May 2003, a severe earthquake struck the Algiers area. There were over 2,200 dead and more than 10,000 injured. Smaller earthquakes happen regularly. In July 2014, an earthquake killed 6 people and injured 420. 

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake. 

Before you travel check that: 

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need 

• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation 

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant. 

Emergency medical number 

Call 16 or 1021 and ask for an ambulance. 

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment. 

Vaccine recommendations and health risks 

At least 8 weeks before your trip:  

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Algeria 
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page  

See what health risks you’ll face in Algeria.  

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Algeria. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro. 

Medication 

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. 

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro. 

Healthcare in Algeria 

Facilities at private clinics are usually better than government hospitals. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation. 

English is not widely spoken and you may face communication difficulties if you do not speak Arabic or French.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Algeria. 

Travel and mental health 

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.