Algeria, Tunisia Launch New Bus Lines Connecting Algiers, Annaba to Tunis
Takeaway
The coordinated effort between El Djamaïa Transport and Services Company and SNTRI highlights the potential for further public-private partnerships in North African transportation infrastructure. Investors should monitor passenger numbers on these routes as an indicator of demand for expanded cross-border transport options, potentially influencing investment decisions in related sectors such as tourism and logistics.
Two new international bus routes connecting Algeria and Tunisia commenced operations this week, aiming to facilitate travel and strengthen land connections between the two countries. The first route, linking Algiers to Tunis, was inaugurated on Thursday, March 12, 2026, with the launch ceremony taking place at the Caroubier Bus Station in Algiers. Djamel Eddine Abdelghani Dridi, Secretary-General of the Ministry of the Interior, Local Assemblies and Transport, represented Minister of Transport Saïd Sayoud at the event. The second route, connecting Annaba to Tunis, began service on Friday, March 13, 2026.
The Tunis–Algiers route passes through El Kef, Tajerouine, Kalaat Senan, Constantine, Sétif, and Bordj Bou Arreridj. The Tunis–Annaba route includes stops in Béja, Jendouba, Aïn Draham, Babouch, El Aioun, El Kala, Aïn Assel, and Ben M'Hidi. The Algerian Bus Stations Management Company (SOGRAL) indicated that the Algiers-Tunis route connects the Caroubier terminal in Algiers with the Bab Alioua Bus Station in Tunis. The Tunis-Annaba line departs from Bab Saadoun station in Tunis. These new routes complement existing flights and trains, addressing high travel demand, especially from Algerian tourists visiting Tunisia.
The Tunis-Algiers route will initially operate two weekly departures in each direction, on Thursdays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m.. The Tunis-Annaba route will have four weekly rotations in each direction, from Thursday to Sunday at 7:00 a.m.. Operations will be jointly managed by the Algerian company El Djamaïa Transport and Services Company and Tunisia's National Intercity Transport Company (SNTRI). Initially, the two services will provide a combined six weekly journeys between the two countries. Authorities have indicated that the frequency could increase to twenty trips per week depending on passenger demand.
Ticket prices are set at 6,000 Algerian dinars (~$44) for the Algiers–Tunis route and 2,300 Algerian dinars (~$17) for the Annaba–Tunis connection. Passengers can purchase tickets online via the Mahattati mobile application or directly from ticket counters at bus terminals, using both domestic and international payment cards. The SNTRI advises passengers to book in advance at the Bab Saadoun and Bab Alioua bus stations or through its commercial agencies, and to present a valid passport for travel.
On the sidelines of the Algiers-Tunis route inauguration, a new police post and a Civil Protection unit were opened at the Caroubier bus station. This is part of a broader effort to enhance passenger safety and improve service quality at one of the capital's main transport hubs. Future developments to watch include potential increases in trip frequency based on passenger demand and further enhancements to bus station facilities and security.