Algeria Phone Numbers: Format, Area Code & Validation Guide

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Algeria's telephone numbering system, designed for developers, telecommunications professionals, and anyone integrating Algerian phone numbers into their applications. We'll cover number formatting, validation, best practices, and regulatory considerations to ensure accurate and compliant handling of Algerian phone numbers.

Number Structure and Formatting

Algeria uses a 10-digit closed numbering plan for both landlines and mobile phones. All numbers are dialed with the country code +213 when calling from outside Algeria.

10-Digit System Breakdown

+213 XX XXXXXXX
      │  └─ Subscriber Number (7 digits)
      └─── Area/Operator Code (2-3 digits)

The two or three digits after the country code represent the area code for landlines or the operator prefix for mobile numbers. The remaining seven digits are the subscriber's unique number.

Number Formats by Type

Implementation Guide

Correct implementation is crucial for seamless communication. Here's a guide to validating and formatting Algerian phone numbers:

Validation Patterns

Robust validation prevents errors and ensures data integrity. Use these regular expressions (regex) for validation:

// Geographic Numbers (Illustrative - expand for comprehensive area code coverage)
const geoPattern = /^\+213(21|23|31|41)\d{7}$/; 

// Mobile Numbers
const mobilePattern = /^\+213(5[4-6]|6[5-7]|7[7-9])\d{7}$/;

// Toll-Free Numbers
const tollFreePattern = /^\+213800\d{7}$/;

// Premium Rate Numbers
const premiumPattern = /^\+21380[3-6]\d{7}$/;

// Shared Cost Numbers
const sharedCostPattern = /^\+21380[1-2]\d{7}$/;


function validateAlgerianNumber(phoneNumber) {
  const cleanNumber = phoneNumber.replace(/\s+/g, ''); // Remove whitespace
  
  if (geoPattern.test(cleanNumber)) return { isValid: true, type: 'geographic' };
  if (mobilePattern.test(cleanNumber)) return { isValid: true, type: 'mobile' };
  if (tollFreePattern.test(cleanNumber)) return { isValid: true, type: 'toll-free' };
  if (premiumPattern.test(cleanNumber)) return { isValid: true, type: 'premium' };
  if (sharedCostPattern.test(cleanNumber)) return { isValid: true, type: 'shared-cost' };

  return { isValid: false, type: 'unknown' };
}

Important Note: The provided geographic regex is illustrative and needs to be expanded to include all valid Algerian area codes for comprehensive validation. Refer to a regularly updated list of area codes from a reliable source like the Algerian Regulatory Authority for Post and Telecommunications (ARPT/ARPCE).

Formatting Examples

Consistent formatting improves readability and user experience.

function formatAlgerianNumber(phoneNumber, format = 'international') {
  const cleaned = phoneNumber.replace(/\D/g, ''); // Remove non-digit characters

  switch(format) {
    case 'international':
      return `+213 ${cleaned.slice(3, 5)} ${cleaned.slice(5, 8)} ${cleaned.slice(8)}`; // Improved spacing
    case 'national':
      return `0${cleaned.slice(3, 5)} ${cleaned.slice(5, 8)} ${cleaned.slice(8)}`;
    default:
      return cleaned; // E.164 format
  }
}

Dialing Procedures

Domestic Calls

• Landline to Landline: 0 [Area Code] [Number] (e.g., 0 21 1234567)
• Mobile to Mobile: [Mobile Prefix] [Number] (e.g., 551234567 or 0551234567 - both are commonly used)
• Any to Any: 0[Full 10-digit number without +213] (e.g. 0213211234567)

International Calls

• From Algeria: 00 [Country Code] [Number] (e.g., 00 1 212 555 1212 for a US number)
• To Algeria: +213 [Area/Mobile Code] [Number] (e.g., +213 21 1234567)

Caution: The leading "0" is the national trunk prefix and should be omitted when dialing internationally. Include it only for domestic calls.

Technical Implementation Best Practices

• Input Validation: Implement both client-side and server-side validation using the regex patterns. Handle various input formats gracefully.
• Storage Format: Store numbers in E.164 format (+213XXXXXXXXX) for consistency and easy internationalization. Consider storing the original input for reference.
• Display Format: Use consistent formatting based on user locale. Provide clear spacing for readability (e.g., +213 XX XXX XXXX).

Common Pitfalls

• Incorrect Prefix Handling: The leading "0" is often mishandled. Remember to remove it for international calls and include it for domestic calls.
• Incomplete Area Code List: Ensure your validation uses a complete and up-to-date area code list.
• Inconsistent Formatting: Inconsistent formatting can lead to user confusion and errors.

Market Structure and Operators

Algeria has three main mobile operators:

• Mobilis (ATM): State-owned, market leader. Prefixes: +213 5[4-5], +213 9
• Djezzy (OTA): First private operator. Prefixes: +213 6[5-7], +213 7
• Ooredoo: International operator. Prefixes: +213 7[7-9]

Regulatory Framework and Compliance

The Autorité de Régulation de la Poste et des Télécommunications (ARPT), now known as the Autorité de Régulation des Communications Electroniques et des Postes (ARPCE), regulates the telecommunications sector. Key compliance requirements include:

• Number format validation
• Correct prefix usage
• Adherence to number allocation rules
• Documentation of number handling procedures

Consult the ARPCE website (http://www.arpce.dz/) for the latest regulations. (Note: the previous ARPT website, http://www.arpt.dz, may be outdated).

Future Developments

While Mobile Number Portability (MNP) is still under consideration, Algeria's telecom sector is evolving with 5G network planning, enhanced digital service regulations, and infrastructure modernization.