Algiers has been ranked first in Africa and 34th globally in the 2026 Gigacity Index, according to a report by the British-based Omdia research firm. The index evaluates the performance of fixed broadband networks in 50 major cities worldwide. Algiers was classified under the Silver category, advancing 11 ranks ahead of Cape Town, South Africa, which ranked second in Africa.
The report highlights that Algiers has surpassed major cities such as Cairo, Nairobi, Lagos, Berlin, Sydney, Istanbul, and Buenos Aires. In terms of infrastructure and coverage, Algiers boasts near-total coverage of fiber-optic connections to homes (FTTH), approaching 100%. This is the highest among African cities ranked. As a result, Algiers scored 50 out of 100 points in the network infrastructure axis.
Algiers achieved high rankings compared to other capitals such as Riyadh, which scored 43 points, Berlin with 47 points, Istanbul with 49 points, and Sydney with 41 points. In terms of performance and speeds, 7% of households in Algiers enjoy speeds exceeding 500 megabits per second, while 3% have speeds above 1 gigabit per second. About 90% of subscribers have a minimum speed of over 100 megabits per second.
The report also noted that Algiers performed well in terms of latency, which is a key aspect of internet quality. Omdia described Algeria as an emerging broadband market that has rapidly adopted fiber-optic technology as part of a national expansion strategy. This approach has propelled Algiers to the top of African cities. Algiers is one of only two African cities, along with Cape Town, classified under the Silver category.
The rest of the African cities were classified under the Bronze category. Globally, Algiers scored the same points as London, which ranked 36th. This ranking is a culmination of significant investments made by the state in communication infrastructure. It aligns with the country's policy of modernizing communication networks and expanding fiber-optic connections.
The ranking reflects the government's efforts to implement the directives of the country's top authorities. Algeria's postal and telecommunications sector has been working to modernize and expand its networks. The country's strategy aims to enhance internet services and improve the overall digital experience for its citizens.
The achievement demonstrates Algeria's progress in developing its digital infrastructure. The government's investments in this area are expected to have a positive impact on the country's economy and society. Algeria's advancement in the digital landscape is likely to attract more investment and create new opportunities for growth and development.
Key points
- Algiers ranks 1st in Africa and 34th globally in the 2026 Gigacity Index.
- The city boasts near-total coverage of fiber-optic connections to homes (FTTH), approaching 100%.
- Algiers outperformed major cities such as Berlin, Istanbul, and Sydney in terms of internet speed and quality.
