The socio-cultural dimension and the reality of tourism polarization in activating tourism in Algerian society

Tourism is considered a fundamental activity in people's lives, as its direct and indirect effects extend to social, cultural, and economic aspects, and even to international relations. Its growing importance is evident in its role in international trade. However, despite the significance of its economic returns, this is not the only criterion that the state relies on to promote and support the tourism industry. This presentation explores Algeria‘s tourism wealth by highlighting its natural assets and its potential to attract tourists. Algeria is characterized by remarkable natural diversity, stretching from the coastline to the highlands and the Sahara Desert, giving it immense tourism potential. The country boasts breathtaking landscapes, beaches, mountains, and vast deserts, in addition to Roman ruins, fortresses, and theaters in regions such as Batna, Setif, and Cherchell. Despite possessing these natural, human, and material assets, the tourism sector in Algeria remains weak compared to neighboring countries like Tunisia and Morocco. This is mainly due to the lack of effective political management to develop the sector, rendering it marginal and unable to fulfill its true role. Given the current favorable conditions for development, there is hope that Algeria‘s tourism sector will witness a genuine revival in the coming years.