Comprehensive Guide to Phone Numbers in Algeria

Quick Reference

• Country: Algeria
• Country Code: +213
• International Prefix: 00
• National Prefix: 0

Overview

This guide provides an in-depth look at Algeria's telephone numbering system, including number formats, dialing procedures, and telecommunications regulations. Essential for telecom professionals, developers, and anyone involved in international communications with Algeria.

Number Formats

General Structure

Algeria's phone numbers follow a 10-digit format:

• Country Code: +213
• Area/City Code: 1-2 digits (landlines)
• Mobile Prefix: 2 digits
• Subscriber Number: 6-7 digits

Number Format Table

Type	Format	Example
Geographic	+213 [Area Code] [Subscriber Number]	+213 21 1234567
Mobile	+213 [Mobile Prefix] [Subscriber Number]	+213 551234567
Toll-Free	+213 800 [Subscriber Number]	+213 800123456
Premium Rate	+213 80[3-6] [Subscriber Number]	+213 803123456
Shared Cost	+213 80[1-2] [Subscriber Number]	+213 801123456

Regular Expressions for Number Validation

• Geographic Numbers:
  ^\+213(21|23|31|33|35|41|43|45|49|25|27|29|37|39|43|46|48)\d{6}$
  

• Mobile Numbers:
  ^\+213(5[4-6]|6[5-7]|7[7-9])\d{7}$
  

• Toll-Free Numbers:
  ^\+213800\d{6}$
  

• Premium Rate Numbers:
  ^\+21380[3-6]\d{6}$
  

• Shared Cost Numbers:
  ^\+21380[1-2]\d{6}$
  

Dialing Procedures

Domestic Calls

• Landline to Landline:
  Dial 0 + area code + subscriber number.
  Example: 0 21 1234567

• Landline to Mobile:
  Dial 0 + mobile prefix + subscriber number.
  Example: 0 551234567

• Mobile to Mobile:
  Dial mobile prefix + subscriber number.
  Example: 551234567

International Calls

• Outgoing from Algeria:
  Dial 00 + country code + area code + subscriber number.
  Example: 00 1 202 5550123 (calling the USA)

• Incoming to Algeria:
  Dial +213 + area code/mobile prefix + subscriber number.
  Example: +213 21 1234567

Recent Changes to the Numbering Plan

In 2008, Algeria transitioned to a 10-digit numbering system to meet the growing demand for phone numbers. No recent changes have been reported.

Number Portability

Algeria currently lacks a system for mobile number portability, meaning subscribers cannot retain their numbers when switching providers.

Major Telecom Operators and Number Ranges

Mobile Operators

• Mobilis:
  Number Prefixes: +213 5[4-5]

• Djezzy:
  Number Prefixes: +213 6[5-6]

• Ooredoo:
  Number Prefixes: +213 7[7-9]

Fixed-Line Operators

• Algérie Télécom:
  Number Prefixes: +213 21, +213 23, +213 31, +213 33

Regulatory Bodies

The Autorité de Régulation de la Poste et des Télécommunications (ARPT) regulates Algeria's telecommunications sector. They manage the national numbering plan and ensure compliance with international standards.

• Official Website: ARPT

Number Allocation and Management

The ARPT is responsible for assigning number ranges to operators and ensuring the numbering plan meets the country's telecommunications needs.

Technical Restrictions and Special Cases

• Golden Numbers: No publicized system for golden numbers exists in Algeria.
• Number Blocking: Not commonly discussed in public resources.

Technical Considerations

For developers handling Algerian phone numbers:

1. Validation: Use provided regex for accurate validation.
2. Formatting: Ensure consistent formatting according to international standards.
3. Number Length: Design databases/forms to accommodate 10-digit numbers.
4. Dialing Logic: Implement logic for domestic and international dialing.