Oran Inaugurates Renovated City Hall, Regional Foreign Ministry Annex
Image: El Mawkie
Takeaway
The infrastructure upgrades in Oran, particularly the expansion of the tramway and the new port road, will improve logistics and connectivity for businesses operating in the region. Investors should monitor the progress of these projects, as they are likely to increase the attractiveness of Oran as a business hub and facilitate trade flows. Companies in the construction, transportation, and logistics sectors stand to benefit directly from these developments.
The city of Oran celebrated the reopening of its renovated City Hall and the inauguration of a regional annex for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Saturday, February 22, 2026. Minister of Interior, Local Authorities, and Transportation, Saïd Sayoud, and Secretary of State for the National Community Abroad, Sofiane Chaib, presided over the ceremonies. The Oran City Hall, a landmark with historical and symbolic significance, has been restored after 16 months of renovations.
The inauguration of the regional annex of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Oran aims to streamline the certification of administrative documents for use abroad. This falls under a broader effort to improve institutional cooperation and public services. Oran, Algeria's second-largest city, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 903 AD by Andalusian Moorish traders. Throughout its history, Oran has been a significant port and commercial hub, connecting North Africa with Europe. The city's strategic location has made it a focal point for various powers, including the Spanish, Ottoman, and French empires.
Oran's municipal infrastructure is undergoing significant development. The Oran Tramway, which began service on May 2, 2013, spans 18.7 kilometers with 32 stations. It is designed to handle approximately 90,000 passengers daily, or 88 million annually. An 8.6-kilometer extension with 12 new stations from the Hatab bus station to Benarba is planned, as well as extensions from Depot Senia to the Oran airport (5km) and from USTO to Bir El Djir (16.5km). In 2024, the freeze was lifted on the tramway extension project to the Belgaïd area, with work scheduled to begin in 2025. The project to build the Oran Metro was launched in 2008, with construction planned to start in 2014. Phase 1 is planned to be 10.8 km long.
The renovated City Hall and the new Foreign Ministry annex are expected to enhance administrative efficiency and public service delivery in Oran. The tramway extensions will improve transportation for residents and connect key areas, including the university hub and the Miloud Hadefi sports complex. These projects benefit local residents, businesses, and the overall economy by improving accessibility and reducing travel times. A new road connecting Oran's port to the East-West Highway, costing $369 million (~DZD 49.8 billion), is nearing completion and will improve transport connections for heavy vehicles.
Looking ahead, stakeholders should monitor the progress of the tramway and metro extensions, as well as the completion of the new port road. These infrastructure projects are crucial for Oran's continued growth and development. Any delays in these projects could impact the city's economic activity and transportation efficiency. The completion of the technical study for the Oran Metro and the tendering process for the first section will be key milestones to watch.