Today, March 2, 2024, Professor Yahia Jaafari, the Rector of the University, along with Mr. Arabi Bahloul, the Governor of Adrar Province, inaugurated the National Forum on Saharan Tourism in Algeria: Challenges and Promising Opportunities. The event was attended by the President of the Provincial People’s Council, the Rector of Adrar University, executive managers, the Mayor of Adrar, members of civil society, professors, and students.

   The forum was organized both in person and remotely, with the participation of numerous professors and experts from various universities. Concurrently, there was an exhibition of traditional industries by artisans, including some who have received international awards.

   In his speech, the University Rector highlighted the importance of tourism, particularly Saharan tourism, and emphasized the necessity of adopting a continental approach to enable Algeria’s presence in the African tourism market. He pointed out that Africa currently hosts 50 million tourists, with a projected increase to 130 million over the next 10 years. He also stressed the importance of creative ideas and innovative projects in the tourism sector, which remains predominantly youth-oriented. International statistics indicate that 50% of the workforce in tourism is comprised of youth, making it a sector ripe for exploitation and activation, aimed at diversifying the economy to serve our country and shield it from any potential shocks.