Houari Boumediene Airport serves Algiers, Algeria’s main gateway to the country. Opened in 1924 and expanded over decades, it handles most domestic and international flights. The terminal has multiple gates, baggage areas and basic amenities like shops and cafes. Located about nine kilometers from downtown, it connects travelers to major cities worldwide while reflecting Algiers’ growing role as a regional hub. Recent upgrades include improved signage and security processes for smoother arrivals and departures.
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Algerian Dinar (DZD) £1 ≈ DZD 180.09 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 3/5
Cashless payments are becoming more common in major cities, but cash remains dominant.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is common in restaurants, typically around 10%, though it is not obligatory. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is prohibited in Algeria and can lead to fines or legal consequences. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is common in outdoor public spaces and some indoor areas. |
| Revolution Day (November) |
Parades, closures. |
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| Eid al-Fitr (Varies) |
Celebrations, closures. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 17 (Police), 14 (Fire, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Yassir, Uber |
| Other: | Algeria offers vast deserts, historical Roman ruins, and Mediterranean coastlines, though some areas may be difficult to access. |
Houari Boumediene Airport is located approximately 16 kilometers southeast of downtown Algiers. The airport features three terminals: Terminal 1 for domestic flights, Terminal 2 mainly for charter and pilgrimage flights and Terminal 4 for international services. The terminals are separate buildings but close enough for short walks between them.
The airport serves nearly 10 million passengers annually and is operated as a major hub for Air Algérie and Tassili Airlines. Facilities include duty-free stores, a variety of dining options and multiple lounges such as the Air Algérie VIP Lounge and SGSIA Lounges accessible to premium passengers or those willing to pay.
Travelers should be aware that while the airport is modernizing, the separate terminal layout requires attention to transfer times between flights. Ground transport options include taxis, shuttle buses and a commuter rail under development to better connect the airport with the city center.
The climate is Mediterranean, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Visitors should plan for warm temperatures in summer and cooler, rainy days in winter when visiting Algiers.
Located in Terminal 1, Hall 2 near Gate 21, this lounge offers a quiet environment with comfortable seating, a selection of food and drinks, and complimentary Wi‑Fi. It is open 24/7 and exclusive to Air Algérie business class travellers and VIPs.
Open to all passengers for a fee, this lounge offers snacks, drinks, Wi‑Fi, and comfortable seating, helping travellers relax away from busy terminals.
The international equivalent of the SGSIA lounge, providing similar amenities for a fee or through airline partnerships.
Algiers offers a wide range of lodging options, from luxury hotels to budget accommodations. Most visitors prefer staying in the city center for easier access to cultural sites and airport transport, with some hotels offering shuttle services.
To Algiers City Center:
The airport is approximately 16 kilometres from downtown Algiers. Travellers can use taxis available 24/7 at all terminals or shuttle buses with scheduled departures every 30 minutes between 8:00 and 17:30 at affordable prices. A commuter train connection to the city is also under development, promising easier future access.
To Oran:
Oran, Algeria’s second-largest city, is accessible via domestic flights from ALG or by long-distance bus or car. Travel times via road can be lengthy, so flying remains the fastest option.
To Constantine:
Constantine is similarly reachable by domestic flights or road from Algiers. Private transfers and buses serve the route, with flights preferred for speed and convenience.
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