The Algerian city of Sidi Bel Abbès recently hosted a seminar on the role of the digital agenda in promoting tourism. The event was held on September 27, 2026, and was attended by various stakeholders in the tourism industry. The seminar's theme, "Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence for Tourism Redesign," reflects the significant transformations in the sector. The event was organized to explore new ways to improve the tourist experience and develop services.
The seminar was presided over by Mabrouk Kadour, head of the Wali's office. He emphasized that this year's celebration of World Tourism Day has special significance, given the chosen theme. The digital agenda and artificial intelligence are expected to revolutionize the tourism sector, enabling it to move from traditional methods of promotion and management to more intelligent and digitized systems. Sidi Bel Abbès is well-positioned to become a hub for investment and tourism, with its natural resources, rural and mountainous landscapes, and historical sites.
The Wali of Sidi Bel Abbès highlighted the region's potential for tourism development. He mentioned that the Atouche site in the municipality of Tassala and the Sarnou dam site in the municipality of Sidi Hamadouche have been included in the national expansion areas. This inclusion is expected to open up new opportunities for tourism investment, diversify offerings, and create jobs for young people. The seminar aimed to explore ways to harness the potential of the digital agenda and artificial intelligence in tourism promotion.
The director of tourism, Zaydi al-Tayeb, emphasized that tourism has become a vital component of the national economy. He stressed the need for special attention to be given to this sector, which has evolved from a mere leisure activity to a means of communication and rapprochement between nations. The seminar featured a presentation by Professor Hajj Gharib, who discussed the role of the digital agenda and artificial intelligence in redesigning the tourism experience.
Professor Gharib explained that tourists now rely on digital transformation to research and plan their trips. He emphasized the need for Algeria to adapt to these changes by adopting a digital agenda, including digital data and infrastructure. The seminar also featured an exhibition showcasing various products, including traditional clothing, natural soap, and handicrafts.
The exhibition, held on the sidelines of the seminar, was organized by the "Africa" tourism agency and featured various local products. The event provided an opportunity for artisans to showcase their products, including traditional clothing, natural soap, and handmade items. The seminar and exhibition aimed to promote tourism in Sidi Bel Abbès and explore new ways to develop the sector.
The seminar concluded with a renewed emphasis on the importance of harnessing digital technologies to promote tourism in Algeria. The event highlighted the need for innovative approaches to tourism development, including the use of artificial intelligence and digital data. The outcome of the seminar is expected to contribute to the growth of the tourism sector in Sidi Bel Abbès and Algeria as a whole.
Key points
- The seminar in Sidi Bel Abbès explored the role of the digital agenda in promoting tourism.
- The event highlighted the need for innovative approaches to tourism development, including the use of artificial intelligence and digital data.
- Sidi Bel Abbès is well-positioned to become a hub for investment and tourism, with its natural resources and historical sites.
