Substantial Increase in Tourism and Hajj Allowances: A “Breath of Fresh Air” for Algerian Travelers

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | December 10th, 2024 — In a bold move that is set to significantly ease the financial burden on Algerian travelers, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune announced a substantial increase in both the tourism and Hajj allowances. This decision, made during the Council of Ministers on Sunday, has been widely praised by experts and professionals, who view it as a crucial step in improving the well-being of citizens and facilitating their international travel.

The new policy will see the tourism allowance raised to 750 euros per adult Algerian traveler and 300 euros per minor starting in January 2025. Additionally, the Hajj allowance will be set at 1,000 dollars per Algerian pilgrim, beginning with the upcoming Hajj season. This initiative aligns with President Tebboune’s commitment to improving living standards and relieving financial pressures on Algerians. An executive decree outlining the specifics of how these allowances can be obtained will be published shortly.

Sofiane Mazari, a representative of the Association of Banks and Financial Institutions (ABEF), hailed the decision, stating that the increase—almost sevenfold—would provide Algerian citizens with greater financial flexibility for overseas travel. He emphasized that this move would allow Algerians to travel under improved conditions, contributing to a more accessible and enriching experience.

Economist Boubekeur Salami also expressed his approval, noting that this decision would provide Algerians traveling abroad for religious, tourism, educational, or medical purposes with enhanced financial comfort. He underscored the necessity of speeding up the implementation of the regulatory frameworks that will support this new policy, ensuring a smooth transition and its effective execution.

Slimane Nacer, a finance professor at the University of Kasdi Merbah in Ouargla, echoed these sentiments, describing the allowance increase as a “breath of fresh air” for travelers. He explained that this move would significantly cover a substantial portion of expenses for those traveling abroad, especially tourists. Importantly, Nacer pointed out that this decision would not negatively impact Algeria’s national economy or foreign exchange reserves, emphasizing that further efforts should be directed toward diversifying Algeria’s non-hydrocarbon exports to attract more foreign currency.

Economist Houari Tigharsi added that the substantial increase in allowances would alleviate pressure on citizens seeking to travel overseas, offering them a much-needed financial cushion.

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