LONDON – A forum titled “Algeria is Open for Tourism” was organized by the Algerian Embassy in London in collaboration with the Algerian-British Business Council (ABBC), bringing together Algerian and British tourism specialists and tour operators.
Opened on Monday in London, this event took place alongside the International Tourism Fair, gathering global leaders in tourism. It provided an opportunity for Mr. Choukri Benzarour, Director General of Crafts at the Ministry of Tourism, and Ms. Habiba Bouguerroumi, Director at the Algerian Agency for Investment Promotion (AAPI), to present aspects related to the sector’s development.
The forum was inaugurated by Algeria’s ambassador to the UK, Mr. Nourredine Yazid, in the presence of Lord Richard Risby, the UK Prime Minister’s representative for Algeria partnership, and Lady Olga Maitland, President of the ABBC. Ambassador Yazid emphasized the key pillars supporting Algeria’s tourism revival, highlighting President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s re-election and his ambitious economic reform program aimed at reducing reliance on hydrocarbons and diversifying Algeria’s income sources.
He explained that the improved business climate and the government’s incentives are additional advantages likely to encourage more investments from the UK, noting that tourism development is a priority and a central driver for economic diversification.
Mr. Yazid expressed hope that the UK and Algeria, sharing a longstanding, rich cooperation, would expand their ties into the tourism sector, in which British professionals have a globally renowned reputation. “Together, we can unlock Algeria’s tourism potential and create a sustainable partnership that benefits both countries,” he stated. Lady Maitland, recalling her visit to Algeria, praised its enchanting regions, especially Djanet.
Lady Maitland lauded the Algerian government’s efforts to develop tourism and promote Algeria as a destination, mentioning measures aimed at facilitating visa procedures and increasing the number of travel agencies.
Ms. Bouguerroumi provided further details, showcasing Algeria’s tourism assets and legislative incentives that encourage foreign investment, alongside guarantees for investors. Government plans to build seven new tourism hubs and expand 224 tourism zones were also presented.
Mr. Choukri Benzaroura, Director General of Tourism and Crafts, discussed cultural heritage and investment opportunities in this area, as well as a development strategy for the tourism sector.
Two discussion panels followed, the first allowing guests to raise and debate issues that, in their view, hinder or slow down the sector’s growth, and the second focused on personal experiences from British and Algerian professionals involved in Algeria’s tourism services.
In the first segment, panelists discussed Algeria’s vast potential, rich and diverse tourist sites, and various tourism offerings. The second panel, mainly led by travel agency managers, emphasized areas that need improvement to enhance Algeria’s image internationally and encourage repeat visits.
The topics of English proficiency, especially among guides, and card payments came up frequently. The Ambassador agreed on the importance of language as a communication tool and card payments as a trade instrument but argued these were not necessarily limiting factors. He cited examples of Latin American countries that attract high tourist numbers despite limited English proficiency, and developed countries that still favor cash payments.
In conclusion, the positive contributions of Algerian nationals in the UK promoting Algeria through social media, YouTube channels, and pages dedicated to the country’s beauty were noted.
Alongside the Forum, the Algerian Embassy in London organized an exhibition featuring traditional crafts, regional products, and traditional attire representing all regions of Algeria.
Hope & ChaDia, Translated from APS.
