Country Profile: Algeria

Algeria is the largest country in Africa, located in Northern Africa along the Mediterranean Sea. It features a diverse geography that ranges from coastal plains to the vast Sahara Desert. As of 2025, the estimated population is over 47 million, predominantly of Arab-Amazigh descent, reflecting a rich cultural heritage. The economy heavily relies on hydrocarbons, particularly oil and natural gas, which face challenges due to political instability and lack of diversification. Algeria operates as a presidential republic, with a multi-party system that has evolved significantly since its independence in 1962.

Geography

Algeria's geographic landscape is predominantly arid, with a notable portion covered by desert, making it the largest country in Africa. The terrain includes the Atlas Mountains in the north and the Hoggar Mountains in the south, while the Mediterranean coastline stretches for nearly 1,000 km. The country's diverse climate varies from mild and wet in the north to dry and cold in the interior regions.

2,381,740 sq km: Total land area, slightly less than 3.5 times the size of Texas.
6,734 km: Total land boundaries with neighboring countries.
17.4%: Percentage of land classified as agricultural (2023 est.).
80%: Proportion of desert in the country, presenting significant natural hazards like droughts and floods.

People and Society

Algeria's population, estimated at 47,735,685 in 2025, is predominantly Arab-Amazigh (99%), with a small European minority. The official languages are Arabic and Tamazight, with French widely spoken as a lingua franca. The society is primarily Muslim, with 99% identifying as Sunni, and urbanization is rising, with 75.3% of the population living in urban areas as of 2023.

Median age: 29.3 years (2025 est.)
Birth rate: 19.62 births per 1,000 population (2025 est.)
Life expectancy: 77.9 years (2024 est.)
Literacy rate: 74.2% female (2019 est.)

Economy

Algeria's economy largely relies on oil and gas industries, which provide the majority of government revenue. However, it has faced significant challenges, including a lack of diversification and political instability affecting domestic consumption. As of 2024, the GDP is estimated at $722.912 billion (PPP), with a growth rate of 3.3% expected.

GDP per capita: $15,400 (2024 est.)
Unemployment rate: 11.5% (2024 est.)
Agriculture: Contributes 13.1% to GDP (2023 est.)
Exports: $59.426 billion (2023 est.), with the main commodities being natural gas and crude petroleum.

Government

Algeria is a presidential republic with a bicameral legislature. The current president, Abdelmadjid TEBBOUNE, was elected in December 2019, following widespread protests that led to the resignation of his predecessor. The political landscape has evolved, with significant reforms enacted to address issues of representation and corruption.

58: Number of provinces (wilayas) in Algeria.
Voting age: Citizens can vote from the age of 18.
Constitution: The current constitution, reflecting various reforms, was approved in 2020.

Military and Security

The Algerian People's National Army (ANP) is responsible for external defense and some internal security functions. The military has significant influence in politics and has been pivotal during times of political transition. The country faces security challenges, particularly from terrorism and regional instability.

200,000: Estimated number of active military personnel (2025).
8%: Military expenditure as a percentage of GDP (2024 est.).
Mandatory service: 12 months for men upon reaching 19 years of age.

Energy

Algeria is rich in energy resources, primarily focusing on oil and natural gas extraction. The country has made strides in expanding electricity access, boasting a 100% electrification rate for the total population. The energy sector remains crucial for economic stability.

1.443 million bbl/day: Total petroleum production (2023 est.)
104.896 billion cubic meters: Natural gas production (2023 est.)
98.1%: Share of fossil fuels in electricity generation capacity (2023 est.)

Environment

Algeria faces several environmental challenges, including air pollution, soil erosion, and desertification. Efforts to combat these issues are ongoing, with participation in various international environmental agreements aimed at enhancing sustainability.

75.3%: Urban population as of 2023, contributing to pollution challenges.
22.4 micrograms/m³: Particulate matter emissions (2019 est.).
11%: Percentage of municipal solid waste recycled (2022 est.).

Transportation

Algeria boasts a structured transportation network, including roads, railways, and air travel. The country has several key ports and a significant number of airports to facilitate domestic and international travel, though infrastructure development remains a focus area.

4,020 km: Length of railways (2019).
95: Total airports projected by 2025.
119: Total merchant marine vessels (2022).

Communications

Algeria has made considerable advancements in telecommunications, with a high percentage of the population enjoying access to mobile and fixed-line services. The internet penetration rate continues to grow, enhancing connectivity.

54.1 million: Total mobile cellular subscriptions (2024 est.)
77%: Percentage of the population using the internet (2023 est.).
6.93 million: Fixed-line subscriptions (2024 est.)

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	47,735,685 (2025 est.)
Area	2,381,740 sq km	Largest country in Africa.
GDP (PPP)	$722.912 billion (2024 est.)	Significant reliance on oil and gas.
Energy Consumption per Capita	61.843 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Birth Rate	19.62 births/1,000 population (2025 est.)
Unemployment Rate	11.5% (2024 est.)
Life Expectancy	77.9 years (2024 est.)