How to Call Algeria
Complete guide to dialing Algeria (country code +213)
Looking to connect with friends, family, or business contacts in Algeria? Learning how to call Algeria doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're making your first international call or need a quick refresher, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about calling Algeria from anywhere in the world.
We'll cover the essential dialing codes and step-by-step instructions to ensure your call goes through successfully. You'll also discover common mistakes people make when calling Algeria and how to avoid them, proper phone etiquette to follow when connecting with Algerian contacts, and a helpful list of important numbers you might need during your stay or when contacting local services. Let's get started on making your international calling experience smooth and hassle-free.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format for Algeria
To call Algeria from abroad, you need to understand the country's dialing structure. Algeria's international country code is +213, and you must follow a specific format to connect successfully.
Basic Dialing Structure
The standard format is: Exit Code + 213 + Area Code (without leading zero) + Local Number
Important: When dialing Algeria internationally, always remove the leading "0" from the local area code or mobile prefix.
Step-by-Step Instructions by Country
From the United States:
- Dial 011 (US exit code)
- Dial 213 (Algeria country code)
- Dial the area code without the leading zero
- Dial the local number
From the United Kingdom:
- Dial 00 (UK exit code)
- Dial 213 (Algeria country code)
- Dial the area code without the leading zero
- Dial the local number
From Other Countries:
Replace the exit code with your country's international access code (commonly 00 or 011), then follow the same pattern.
Practical Examples
Example 1 - Calling an Algiers landline:
- Local format: 021 XX XX XX
- From USA: 011-213-21-XX-XX-XX
- From UK: 00-213-21-XX-XX-XX
Example 2 - Calling an Oran landline:
- Local format: 041 XX XX XX
- From USA: 011-213-41-XX-XX-XX
- From UK: 00-213-41-XX-XX-XX
Example 3 - Calling an Algerian mobile:
- Local format: 0555 XX XX XX
- From USA: 011-213-555-XX-XX-XX
- From UK: 00-213-555-XX-XX-XX
Example 4 - Another mobile number:
- Local format: 0777 XX XX XX
- From USA: 011-213-777-XX-XX-XX
Key Reminder
Always drop the "0" prefix when dialing internationally. Mobile numbers in Algeria typically start with 5, 6, or 7 after removing the zero, while landline area codes vary by region.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Algeria, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
Forgetting to drop the leading zero: Algerian phone numbers start with 0 when dialing domestically, but you must remove this zero when calling internationally. For example, if the local number is 021 123 456, dial +213 21 123 456, not +213 021 123 456.
Using the wrong exit code: Many people forget their country's exit code. While + works universally on mobile phones, landline users must dial their specific exit code (00 from most European countries, 011 from the US/Canada) before 213.
Confusing the country code with area codes: +213 is Algeria's country code and must come before the area code. Don't accidentally dial the area code twice or omit +213 entirely.
Incorrect spacing or formatting: While spaces don't affect connectivity, inconsistent formatting causes confusion. Follow the standard format: +213 XX XXX XXXX, where XX is the area code (without the leading zero).
Not accounting for time differences: Algeria uses Central European Time (CET). Calling at inappropriate hours shows lack of preparation—always verify the local time before dialing.
Cultural Etiquette
When calling someone in Algeria, proper phone etiquette reflects respect and cultural awareness. Algerians value politeness and personal connections, which extends to telephone conversations.
Always begin calls with warm greetings. "Salam alaikum" (peace be upon you) is the standard opening, followed by inquiries about the person's health and family. Even for brief calls, skipping these pleasantries is considered rude. Business calls should maintain formality, using titles like "Monsieur" or "Madame," especially when speaking French, which is common in professional settings alongside Arabic.
The best times to call are mid-morning (10 AM-12 PM) or late afternoon (4 PM-7 PM). Avoid calling during prayer times, particularly Friday noon prayers, or late evenings after 9 PM unless it's urgent or you have a close relationship. During Ramadan, be mindful that people may be less available during fasting hours.
Personal calls can be more casual once rapport is established, but maintain initial formality with new contacts. Algerians often prefer direct conversation over voicemail, so expect multiple call attempts rather than leaving messages. If you must leave a voicemail, keep it brief and polite, identifying yourself clearly.
Patience is essential—conversations may take longer than in Western cultures due to relationship-building customs. Rushing through calls or being overly direct can seem disrespectful. Remember that building trust through pleasant conversation is just as important as the call's purpose.
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Emergency Numbers
Police: 17 or 1548
Ambulance (SAMU): 14 or 021 23 50 50
Fire Department: 14
Civil Protection: 14
Gendarmerie (rural areas): 1055
All emergency numbers are toll-free and accessible from both landlines and mobile phones throughout Algeria. Services operate 24/7, though English-speaking operators may not always be available—French and Arabic are the primary languages used. The number 14 serves as a general emergency line connecting to ambulance, fire, and civil protection services. In major cities like Algiers, emergency response times are generally faster than in remote areas. For tourists, it's advisable to have your hotel's contact information handy, as hotel staff can assist with language barriers when calling emergency services. Keep your location details ready when calling.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 19: Directory inquiries for local numbers within Algeria
- 12: General information and operator assistance
International Services
- 10: International operator for placing calls abroad or receiving assistance with overseas connections
Tourist Support
- Tourist Information: Contact your hotel or local tourism office, as Algeria doesn't maintain a centralized tourist helpline number
Embassy Contacts
Keep your embassy's 24-hour emergency number saved. Find contact details through your government's travel website before departure.
Useful Services
- Algérie Télécom customer service: 100 (for telephone and internet issues)
- Bank card loss/theft: Contact your specific bank directly (numbers vary by institution)
- Pharmacy locations: 3012 (for finding nearest on-duty pharmacy)
Always verify current numbers upon arrival, as telecommunications information may change.
Tips for Calling Algeria
When calling Algeria, remember the country operates on Central European Time (UTC+1) year-round, with no daylight saving changes. For international callers, early mornings or late afternoons typically work best to catch Algerian business hours while managing your own schedule.
Algerian businesses generally operate Sunday through Thursday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with an extended lunch break from noon to 2:00 PM. Avoid calling on Fridays and Saturdays, which constitute the weekend. Always schedule business calls in advance—this demonstrates professionalism and ensures availability.
For cost savings, check with your provider about off-peak rates, usually during evening and weekend hours. However, prioritize connection quality over minor savings for important calls.
Be mindful of religious holidays, particularly Ramadan, when business hours shift significantly, and Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, when offices close entirely. National holidays like Independence Day (July 5) and Revolution Day (November 1) also warrant avoidance.
For clearer communication, speak slowly and confirm key details in writing afterward. Internet-based calling services often provide better audio quality than traditional lines, especially valuable given potential infrastructure variations across Algeria's regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Algeria is +213. When calling Algeria from abroad, you must dial this code after your international access prefix. For example, from the US, dial 011-213, followed by the area code and local number.
When calling Algeria from your cell phone, dial + (press and hold 0), then 213 (Algeria's country code), followed by the area code without the leading zero, and the local number. Most smartphones automatically format international calls correctly.
Yes, you must drop the leading zero from Algeria's area codes when calling from abroad. For example, Algiers' area code is 021 domestically, but dial +213-21 when calling Algeria internationally, removing the initial zero completely.
The cheapest options for calling Algeria include VoIP services like WhatsApp, Skype, or Viber over WiFi, international calling cards, or specialized apps like ZippCall. These typically cost significantly less than traditional carrier international rates.
Algeria's emergency numbers are: 17 for police, 14 for fire services, and 115 for ambulance. These numbers work domestically within Algeria. When calling Algeria from abroad, remember these are for local use only after arriving in the country.
Algeria operates on Central European Time (CET), UTC+1 year-round with no daylight saving time. When calling Algeria, consider this time difference to avoid calling during late night or early morning hours for recipients.
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